Southampton: Applications now open for south's leading business incubator

Created in 2012, the Catalyst Centre at the University of Southampton Science Park is fast becoming one of the south’s most sought-after destinations for aspiring science and technology start-ups. Since its inception, the business incubator has helped many fledgling businesses launch and flourish.

Along with coaching and support from a dedicated mentor over a six-month period, free accommodation in a lively and collaborative office and up to £1,000 towards business expenses, the Catalyst Centre quite unusually takes no equity from the businesses it supports.

What’s more, because it is solely focused on supporting science and technology-driven ideas, the opportunities for peer support, knowledge sharing and collaboration through networking within the entrepreneurial community of the Science Park are significant and have proved to be invaluable for the companies that have participated to date.

The Catalyst Centre is once again welcoming applications from South Coast budding entrepreneurs with an intriguing science or technology-led business idea. It’s not essential to have commercial experience or even a business plan at this stage – just a great concept and the drive and determination to succeed.

Limited places are available from September 2015 and entries are open now. Visit www.usspcatalystcentre.org.uk for further information, and to submit an application prior to the closing date of May 25.

Entrants will be asked to complete a short online form describing their business idea, and a shortlist will be invited to pitch their proposition to a judging panel comprising successful entrepreneurs and business experts. Successful entrants should expect to be based at Southampton Science Park.

Peter Birkett, CEO of Southampton Science Park, said: “The Catalyst Centre initiative demonstrates how intensive support and coaching can not only stimulate businesses to grow and develop, but also how this can benefit the local economy. It's not for the faint hearted - the Catalyst Centre process certainly tests commitment - only dedicated and hardworking people need apply."

Mike Santer, founder of Catalyst Centre graduate company BluPoint, commented: “I’ve had a great experience. Being at the centre has given my company so many opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise have had and being based on the Science Park has meant that I’ve met a plethora of people that have enabled me to strive forward every day.”

Apply by May 25 via www.usspcatalystcentre.org.uk