Gateway criteria

The University Enterprise Zone launch pad and incubator offers a unique opportunity for innovative companies in advanced materials, manufacturing, engineering or digital to benefit form a unique mix of leading-edge facilities and support.

As our Hatchery or incubator partner you will have access to a:

• Dedicated research, development & innovation laboratory;
• Smart Zone innovation facilities;
• Range of support programmes in areas such as advanced manufacturing, materials, digital and more* encompassing robotics, 3D printing and more;
• Funding opportunities to help you resource your business with higher skills*.  

University’s Innovation Enterprise Zone Management Board reviews each application from businesses on individual basis where consideration is given to:

• Levels of Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) in your business including product/service or process innovation but also innovative business models.
• Alignment with our mission, vision, research and enterprise centres and core academic areas;
• Potential to create high-value jobs;
• Capacity for collaborative opportunities with the university across the areas of research, knowledge exchange and student/ graduate work experience.
• Value added to university and the region.

After the review you will be informed of the application outcome, at some cases you may be asked to attend a short interview in person. You may be offered a formal offer to move into the Enterprise Zone, conditional offer or we may advise you of more suitable facilities if your application is declined.

* subject to eligibility