Developing Technology Parks

The emergence of science parks in the UK has provided the launch pad for hundreds of hi-tech and knowledge based companies. On October 9-10, delegates from the UK Science Park Association (UKSPA) will meet at Coventry University Technology Park to discuss how they can support and grow the next generation of business.

Coventry University Technology Park was set up in 1998, and following an extensive £260,000 refurbishment through July and August this year, is the perfect venue to welcome the UKSPA conference.

Business Development Manager for the centre, John Lyon, said: “The decision to hold the UKSPA members meeting at our facility is a reflection of the huge investment and growth that has seen the Coventry University Technology Park develop into a truly world-class resource for businesses.”

“The delegates will have the opportunity to see the work of the fantastic £3million Serious Games Institute, the wonderful support to business supplied by the Design Hub, and learn about new projects in 2009 such as the Health Design and Technology Institute and ACT UK – a centre for construction management training using virtual reality.”

Residency in a science park such as the Coventry University Technology Centre provides businesses access to a range of management, marketing and financial services. Via links with universities or research centres, a science park provides companies with the access to the expertise, knowledge and technology they need to grow.

In the past two decades, science parks within UKSPA have launched hundreds of hi-tech and knowledge-based companies. The conference will feature a number of workshops for UKSPA delegates which will drive the future of science park development.
John Lyon added: “We have outstanding facilities for businesses here at Coventry University Technology Park and we are delighted that we have the opportunity to showcase them at the UKSPA Members Meeting.”

The event is sponsored by UK Trade and Investment and the Enterprise Europe Network. Those wishing to attend the UKSPA Members Meeting can download a registration form at www.ukspa.org.uk.