Bristol is poised to reinforce its status as a leading hub for deep technology with the upcoming launch of OMX, a state-of-the-art laboratory and scale-up facility. Set to open in March 2026, this substantial 30,000 square foot space will cater to startups and high-growth companies, providing flexible lab rentals ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 square feet.
A Collaborative Effort
The creation of OMX stems from a strategic partnership between Science Creates and the University of Bristol, with support from Research England, a division of UKRI. This marks the third purpose-built deep tech incubator established by this collaboration, following the successful launches of Science Creates St Philips in 2017 and Science Creates Old Market in 2021. With these facilities combined, Bristol will boast over 75,000 square feet dedicated to deep tech, positioning itself as a formidable ecosystem outside the traditional Golden Triangle.
Addressing Key Gaps
OMX emerges as a direct response to the pressing need for specialized lab space in Bristol. Backed by £8.5 million in funding, the facility has transformed an existing industrial unit near Bristol Temple Meads into a conducive environment for innovation. This development will support around 30 high-spec labs, thus centralizing the region’s innovation infrastructure to benefit spinouts, startups, and scale-ups.
Strategic Location
The facility is strategically located close to the University of Bristol’s new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, which will open later this year. This campus will host the Bristol Innovations Zone (BIZ), a gateway to deep tech innovation. BIZ will offer a plethora of collaboration opportunities, including co-working spaces, advanced equipment, labs, skills training, and access to premier research.
Tailored for Growth
OMX distinguishes itself from traditional incubators by offering tailored laboratory and office configurations designed for companies transitioning from proof-of-concept to commercial viability. The facility will focus on significant areas such as quantum technology, engineering biology, advanced materials, climate tech, and health innovation—domains that align with the research strengths of the University of Bristol and the UK’s Industrial Strategy.
Flexible Space for Evolving Needs
Companies at OMX will benefit from scalable lab spaces, allowing them to grow without the need to relocate. The range of lab sizes from 1,000 square feet for startups to 5,000 square feet for scale-ups provides a unique opportunity for businesses to expand their operations while remaining within Bristol’s vibrant ecosystem.
Building a Community
By joining OMX, companies will integrate into the larger Science Creates community, which includes over 100 deep tech founders already established in Bristol. This ecosystem fosters collaboration and support, with a focus on investment, accelerator programs, partnerships, and skills development. The integration aims to facilitate startups’ transitions from academic research to impactful real-world applications.
A Bright Future for Bristol’s Innovation Scene
Bristol offers a wealth of resources for deep tech firms, including world-class research institutions, a growing talent pool, and access to specialized investors. The establishment of OMX addresses a critical gap in the city’s scale-up infrastructure, allowing companies to transition smoothly from the lab bench to commercial scale without leaving the region.
Retaining Talent and Impact
Historically, many Bristol spinouts faced the challenge of relocating at crucial growth stages, often taking vital talent and economic impact with them. OMX aims to counter this trend by providing the necessary lab space and resources to ensure ambitious companies can thrive right in Bristol.
Voices of Leadership
Professor Evelyn Welch, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bristol, highlights the significant growth in the region’s spinout landscape since the first incubator’s opening in 2017. With Bristol now ranking fifth in the UK for spinouts, the introduction of OMX is seen as a pivotal step in maintaining this momentum.
Dr. Harry Destecroix MBE, Founder of Science Creates, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the necessity of OMX in retaining companies that outgrow their initial spaces. By offering a flexible environment for deep tech companies, OMX is set to become a cornerstone of Bristol’s innovation landscape.
Growing Spinout Success
Since its inception over a decade ago, Science Creates has been instrumental in developing infrastructure that transforms pioneering research into viable businesses. The Bristol region now boasts more than 90 active university spinouts, collectively raising over £700 million in the past two years. The city has gained recognition for its contributions to life sciences and deep tech, ranking highly both nationally and across Europe.
Conclusion
The launch of OMX signals a promising future for deep tech in Bristol, providing essential resources for companies to innovate and grow. With its strategic location, tailored facilities, and strong community support, OMX is set to redefine the landscape for high-growth companies in the region, ensuring Bristol remains at the forefront of the deep tech revolution.
- Key Takeaways:
- OMX provides flexible lab space for startups and scale-ups in Bristol.
- The facility is a collaboration between Science Creates and the University of Bristol.
- It addresses the critical need for specialized lab space in the region.
- Companies can remain in Bristol while scaling their operations.
- More than 90 active university spinouts contribute to Bristol’s vibrant ecosystem.
Read more → www.bristol.ac.uk