Joe Caine
Head of Business Development and Head of Keele Science and Innovation Park, Keele University
Innovation ecosystems take time to build. They grow when businesses, researchers, healthcare organisations and investors come together to share expertise, collaborate and turn ideas into impact.
At the heart of North Staffordshire, Keele Innovation District builds on a proven track record of innovation-led development. Its established community, Keele University Science and Innovation Park, is home to more than 60 businesses and over 1,200 jobs. With occupancy at around 98%, demand for space is clear – creating an exciting opportunity for the next phase of growth.
High-value business ecosystem
Today, businesses at Keele span high-value sectors including health and life sciences, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and renewable energy. Companies such as Biocomposites, Rose BioSolutions, Panthera Biopartners, Thea Pharmaceuticals, Michelin, Siemens Gamesa and WITRON have chosen to invest and grow here, attracted by the combination of an established business community, specialist expertise and the potential to connect with Keele University and its research capabilities.
Advanced materials is also becoming an increasingly important area of focus
Health and life sciences are a particular strength. Globally active businesses across healthcare products, pharmaceutical services, clinical trials and manufacturing sit alongside Keele University’s teaching and research expertise, creating opportunities for businesses to access knowledge, talent, facilities and potential collaboration when it supports their ambitions.
Connected hub for next-generation development
Advanced materials is also becoming an increasingly important area of focus. Building on the University’s expertise and industry links, activity around organisations such as Lucideon and the Advanced Materials Technology Centre (AMTEC) is strengthening capabilities in advanced ceramics, advanced manufacturing and next-generation materials, with applications spanning healthcare, energy, aerospace and defence.
What sets Keele apart is the combination of assets within one connected campus: a research-intensive university, established innovation clusters, specialist businesses and significant capacity for future development.
With around 20 hectares of development land and plans for up to 1.4 million square feet of additional employment and innovation space, Keele Innovation District is positioned to support the next generation of investment in research, development and advanced manufacturing – creating the space, connections and environment for innovative businesses to thrive.
