Business Incubator Boosts Success – UMIC Welcomes New Virtual Tenant

UMIC, the facilities management and business support service provider for the University of Manchester, is delighted to welcome a new tenant to the world-class business incubator.  Evgen Ltd is pioneering the development of new glucosinolate-based products for the prevention and treatment of human disease, including anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory applications.  By using industrial biotechnology Evgen intends to take the lead in the clinical development and commercialisation of the new technologies.

Recessions spawn startups, but they also make it tougher for fledgling companies.  The virtual business incubation model could be the answer to the problem.  The significance of business incubators in the development of new businesses is already well established with substantially higher success rates for businesses that go through the incubation process.  Integral to the UMIC business incubator model is a range of world-class services and support including high-specification office and laboratory accommodation, business advice, networking, mentoring, development opportunities, conference and meeting facilities and event management services.

The Virtual Tenancy Incubation model is a new flexible product to cater for businesses straight off the blocks, offering the benefit of the superb business services offered by UMIC without the full commitment of a long-term office lease.   Not only can we offer an extremely cost-effective alternative to full tenancy, but a range of upgrade and development options are available and can be built in as the client’s business grows.  

The key advantages of the UMIC virtual tenancy package include:

• Use of the prestigious Manchester Bioincubator address as your primary business address
• Hot desk facilities and/or private office facilities with wireless internet
• Access to business support, mentoring and advisory services
• Dedicated direct dial telephone number with virtual reception services
• Networking opportunities
• Incoming post and parcels can be received on your behalf and stored on site
• Preferential rates on conference and meeting rooms and event management services

UMIC Contracts Manager, Helen Sullivan says:

“We’re delighted to be able to offer our business support services to Evgen in this way.  The virtual business incubation model is a new initiative for us at UMIC and we believe it offers a superb addition to our portfolio of world-class incubation services and facilities.”

Chief Executive of Evgen, Dr Stephen Franklin says:

“As a young company at a key stage in our development, having the opportunity to utilise such prestigious facilities as those provided by UMIC will provide a real boost to our business.  This coupled with the first-rate support services on offer to tenants, including business mentoring and networking, provides a fantastic platform for successfully growing the Company in a competitive marketplace.”