Orbit – Durham University’s new Enterprise Zone – opens its doors at NETPark
Orbit, a new business accommodation space hosted by Durham University, has opened a new facility in NETPark, one of the UK’s leading science and technology parks. Orbit will provide flexible office space as well as tailored support and industry-specific guidance for science and technology SMEs and university spin-outs in the North East.
Offering a variety of workspaces, including hotdesking, meeting rooms and a prototype lab, Orbit helps to accommodate small science and technology businesses that are looking for a professional base. See inside Orbit’s facility in the video tour here. In addition to the collaborative environment within Orbit, it also acts as a gateway to the thriving ecosystem of NETPark, giving members access to an established community and the business opportunities this can bring.
Orbit’s offerings extend beyond just physical space, with a commitment to providing the right support and connections to help its members to grow and succeed. A key aspect of this is Orbit’s strong network of partners: CPI, an independent technology innovation centre and founding member of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, Business Durham, the business support service for Durham County Council, and the North East Local Enterprise Partnership, a partnership committed to promoting and developing economic growth in the region. Through these partnerships, Orbit’s members gain access to cutting-edge facilities, funding opportunities and expert industry and business support.
Orbit is hosting an open day on 7th October for interested parties to explore its facilities and find out more about its offerings. The day will include introductory talks and opportunities to meet and network with representatives from each of the partner organisations, with more events to be confirmed. Register to attend the open day here.
Will Bevin-Nicholls, Senior Manager at Orbit, said: “We are thrilled to open Orbit’s doors and begin building our own community within the wider NETPark ecosystem. With some innovative members already signed up and ready to move in, we are looking forward to helping exciting small businesses achieve big things.”
Jenny Taylor, Head of Economic Development at Durham University, said: “Orbit represents the University’s commitment to fostering innovation and development in the region. I look forward to the many opportunities it will bring – from dedicated support for academic spin-outs to collaborations and internship possibilities.”
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The North East Technology Park provides a dynamic and supportive environment to accelerate the growth of ambitious, innovative, high tech companies into global markets. NETPark encourages collaborative multidisciplinary links, driving innovation, enterprise and economic prosperity.
We provide companies with access to a focused and international community where talent flourishes, ideas are generated and businesses have the support and resources to compete with the best in the world.
NETPark North East Technology Park
NETPark, North East Technology Park,
Sedgefield, County Durham TS21 3FD
Call Us: (+44) 01740 625250
Email: enquiries@northeasttechnologypark.com
Web: northeasttechnologypark.com
We initially came because of the printable electronics centre but access to a highly skilled semi conductor workforce in the North East has been a key factor in us staying and growing here, as well as the value for money office space and the access to funding.
It fits perfectly for us that we’re surrounded by like-minded companies at NETPark. There are a number of highly skilled people in the area who can help us grow our business. The facilities and services offered by NETPark are first class, they make office life simple and engaging.
CPI has developed a specialist offering to support SMEs looking to develop their printable electronics applications and our partnership with Business Durham has been instrumental in attracting several SMEs to locate here in the region.
Access to quality facilities was one of the main drivers for deciding to locate the business at the NETPark. We have been able to use this as a launch pad to link into support from CPI and world-class expertise from Durham University.
The proximity to the universities and the infrastructure are very important factors. Ultimately having a presence in Europe is very valuable to us and we intend to stay at NETPark for many years to come.
The quality of the facilities at NETPark and the attitude of staff is first class. It has a really dynamic, innovative atmosphere.