University of Chester launch innovation centre to help new businesses

Aug 11 2011 by Allison Dickinson, Chester Chronicle

FLEDGLING businesses across Cheshire can use social media to increase their chances of success thanks to the University of Chester.

A purpose-built innovation centre, based at the university’s Riverside Campus, will provide free drop-in city-centre units for 15 start-up businesses as well as a 150-seater conference suite, meeting rooms, break-out rooms, a video conferencing suite and a business lounge.

The aim is to support the development of local businesses and use social media to offer advice, updates, mentoring and news.

University of Chester executive director of innovation and development Charlie Woodcock said: “The website and social networking tools present an opportunity to engage with the business community, combining our knowledge and experience with expertise via the web.”

As well as sharing business knowledge from partners – including West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce, Sector Skills Academy, Mersey Dee Alliance and Chester Business School – the social networking sites will offer news about the new start-ups as they move in.

For more information, visit www.riversideinnovation.co.uk or follow @riversideinnov8 on Twitter.