Meet Bradley Topps, Project Director at Sister: Manchester’s Billion Pound Innovation Project
Sister, located in Manchester, is an innovation district formed through a collaboration between The University of Manchester and Bruntwood SciTech. This initiative aims to create workspaces, residences, and public facilities that build on Manchester's…
Sister, located in Manchester, is an innovation district formed through a collaboration between The University of Manchester and Bruntwood SciTech. This initiative aims to create workspaces, residences, and public facilities that build on Manchester's legacy in science and technology innovation.
The district is designed to foster collaboration among industry, academia, and local communities to drive innovations in digital technology, health, biotechnology, and advanced materials and manufacturing.
Sister provides an ecosystem that offers opportunities for start-ups and spin-outs to commercialize their innovations and accelerate growth. The district offers cost-effective workspaces aimed at helping early-stage businesses refine their products and services, enhance their market propositions, and connect with investors and funders.
Sister, located in Manchester, is an innovation district formed through a collaboration between The University of Manchester and Bruntwood SciTech.
Building a strong network of mentors, investors, and peers is essential for entrepreneurs. Such a network can provide guidance and help navigate the challenges of scaling a business. Additionally, assembling a team with the right skills is crucial, and innovation hubs like Sister can be valuable sources for emerging talent and experienced advisors.
Sister is committed to creating an inclusive, purpose-driven community in Manchester. The project aims to generate over 10,000 jobs, develop more than 2 million square feet of commercial, retail, and leisure space, and provide 1,500 new homes. Future developments include Zone C, which will add over half a million square feet of flexible commercial space to drive economic growth.
The Renold Innovation Hub, opened in Autumn 2024, serves as a base for start-ups, entrepreneurs, and organizations contributing to the innovation economy. It hosts entities like Sustainable Ventures and the Turing Innovation Catalyst Manchester. The hub also functions as a community space with events and a community café accessible to the public.
Based on reporting by techround.co.uk.
