By Dr Susie Mitchell, Head of GRID, University of Glasgow
Tell us about GRID and its ambitions?
Glasgow Riverside Innovation District (GRID), anchored by the University of Glasgow, is one of three innovation districts within the Glasgow City Region. Our founding partners are the University of Glasgow, Glasgow City Council and Scottish Enterprise.
Comprising 700 acres, GRID runs from the University’s Gilmorehill Campus to the creative and digital media hub at Pacific Quay, and down to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Govan.
GRID aims to drive inclusive growth through multi-level partnerships and underpinning targeted activities that will grow and scale next generation technological, as well as social, advancements.
How can GRID support start-ups or established businesses?
Whether you’re growing a medtech or creative business, you can access tailored innovation support via GRID partners with guided access to everything from infrastructure and inclusive entrepreneurship support to investment and facilities, including XR Labs and £35M state-of-the-art fabrication equipment.
For businesses looking to expand within our thriving entrepreneurial community, we have the Clinical Innovation Zone, established spaces like thebeyond (Skypark) and new major developments including the Church Street Innovation Zone in Glasgow’s vibrant West End.
We can also help with R&D collaborations, placements and internships, or academic consultancy projects and provide a gateway to investment opportunities (business and capital).
What key developments are happening right now in GRID?
Our major flagship asset the £40m+ Health Innovation Hub with Kadans Science Partner has been realised. This brings outstanding laboratory and innovation space to the life sciences ecosystem.
The second wave of the GRID Civic Grant Fund has kicked off. The Fund is supporting 40 community-based organisations making an enduring positive impact for communities within the District.
We also launched our new GRID Planners Scholarship. Aimed at addressing the critical shortage of accredited planners in Scotland, successful applicants get a generous stipend, fee waiver and real-world training.
What’s been the most exciting success story to come out of GRID so far?
With the support of Glasgow City Council and Innovate UK, we delivered 6 of Glasgow’s 11 UK government-funded Innovation Accelerator Projects. This enabled spin-out Chemify to establish its new Chemifarm in Maryhill; it placed Museums in the Metaverse, and its novel XR-VR platform, on a pathway towards commercialisation; and our Critical Technologies Accelerator got significant industry traction, supporting our plans for a new Critical Technologies Nanofabrication Facility. This demonstrated the major opportunities that devolved, place-based investment can bring.
What makes GRID distinctive from other districts?
GRID is strategically positioned along the iconic River Clyde, and with a Global Top 100 University anchoring the District with over 500 years’ legacy in discovery, exceptional infrastructure, and a major land opportunity (85 hectares) we think GRID presents a once-in-a-generation prospect for investors, startups and businesses.
The district is home to a growing portfolio of University spin-outs attracting £60m in VC investment over the last year. Our key clusters – Health and Life Sciences, Critical Technologies and the Creative industries are underpinned by a significant commercial and investment presence, specialist talent, innovative research, and purpose-built infrastructure.
Our deep civic mission also sets us apart. We will work with partners to tackle inequalities in education and use our test-bed status – the first granted to an innovation district in Scotland – to push the boundaries on testing innovative ideas for the benefit of people and place.
Culturally diverse and with its rich heritage, arts scene, and green spaces – GRID is a vibrant place to live, learn, work, and innovate.
Contact the GRID Team
Email: glasgow-riverside-innovation-district@glasgow.ac.uk
Website:
www.glasgowriversideinnovationdistrict.com
