Katherine Preston has been appointed as a new business incubation manager to support the increasing number of entrepreneurs launching ventures at Birmingham Science Park Aston.
The appointment follows the success of its Entrepreneurs for the Future (e4f) programme, which helps hi-tech start-up companies to achieve growth by providing support such as office space, access to finances, expert advice and mentoring.
Ms Preston, who previously worked at the science park on a project supporting graduate entrepreneurs, said: “This is a brand new role with an incredible amount of potential for development and I am excited to be able to sculpt this role to provide the best possible support to our e4f clients.
“Since it was launched at the end of 2009, e4f has already proven itself to be a huge success, with a significant number of technology start-up companies that have come to us into revenue generating businesses.
"I will now be looking to attract more high-risk, high-growth opportunities and develop stronger connections with local businesses in the region to ensure that we continue to build on our reputation for success.”
Incubation boss Simon Jenner – who is also behind the Urban Coffee Company brand – added: “The appointment of Katherine is a really positive indication that the e4f programme is exceeding our expectations and continuing to provide positive benefits to the businesses in the incubator.
“Ultimately companies that are attracted to the BSPA through e4f and establish themselves in or around Birmingham will help in the future economic development of the region and create new jobs as well as encouraging more companies to the West Midlands to do business.”
