The EpiCentre, managed by Oxford Innovation Space, has celebrated its fifth anniversary, marking five years of supporting entrepreneurs, start-ups and growing businesses in the East of England.
More than 130 guests joined the celebration, reflecting on the achievements at The EpiCentre over the past five years, including creating more than 300 jobs for the local economy, helping customers raise £150million in grants and investments, and providing over 2000 hours of business support.
Speaking at the event was Managing Director of Oxford Innovation Space, Jo Stevens, who said “Celebrating five years of The EpiCentre is a proud moment for all of us. From day one, our mission has been to create a space where innovation thrives and businesses can grow. Today, we stand as a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and innovators who are shaping the future of science and technology – having supported 172 companies and helped secure £150 million in funding. This milestone is not just about the past five years, it’s about the exciting opportunities ahead and the continued impact we will make together.”
Nic Rumsey of Jaynic, who built The EpiCentre in 2020 celebrated the community that’s developed: “A centre like this though is nothing without its occupiers. After five years, the Epicentre already has a long list of Alumni we are very proud of, who freely attribute part of their success to the Epicentre’s nurturing environment.”
Centre Manager, Helen Earl said:
“When The EpiCentre opened its doors in November 2020, the UK was still navigating the height of the Covid-19 pandemic – The EpiCentre was even used as the vaccination centre for the Haverhill area. Since then, the centre has grown rapidly and is now over 80% occupied, with a broad mix of businesses from sectors such as life-sciences, AI, renewable energy and creative tech.
“Over the past five years, The EpiCentre has become a place where ideas take root and grow. Our community of innovators continues to inspire us every day, and this milestone is as much about their success as it is about ours. We’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved and excited about what the next five years will bring,” adds Earl.
As part of the celebrations on the night, The EpiCentre held four short panel discussions exploring key themes shaping modern business:
- Funding for Growth– this examined how start-ups turn ideas into investment and build lasting partnerships with investors.
- Securing Skills– focusing on the challenge of attracting and retaining engineering talent to sustain innovation.
- Innovating Wellness– highlighting new approaches transforming health, well-being and patient experiences.
- AI for Growth– looking at how artificial intelligence is driving smarter decisions and accelerating business performance.
The panels, chaired by Mike Rigby the Chief Executive of Eastern Promise that supports, promotes, and raises aspiration in and for the East of England, heard insights from customers, Innovate UK and members of Oxford Innovation Space’s Business Support team.
The EpiCentre continues to provide flexible workspace, laboratories, and expert business support — helping ambitious companies collaborate, innovate and thrive.
For more information on The EpiCentre, visit www.epicentrehaverhill.co.uk
For more information on Oxford Innovation Space, visit www.oxfordinnovationspace.co.uk
