Business incubator marks official launch

A business incubator which aims to boost the prospects of start-up companies in Leeds has opened its doors.

The Lord Mayor of Leeds Cllr Jane Dowson cut the ribbon in a ceremony at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown, alongside representatives from project hosts Unity Homes and Enterprise and its partner iota Business.

The facility offers shared office space to entrepreneurs and access to specialist support services, business mentoring and networking events.

Dowson said: “Doing it all on your own can be hugely debilitating because it’s a frightening step to take.  This business incubator will give that confidence to turn the bright and brilliant idea into something that will actually work.  I look forward in years to come to coming out to see your businesses expand because this is a starter, not a finish.”

Unity Business Centre is one of three sites in Leeds operated by Unity Enterprise, a subsidiary of Unity Homes and Enterprise, which collectively provide 130 managed workspaces for around 80 businesses, social enterprises and third sector bodies.

Unity’s partner for the incubator scheme, iota Business, has accumulated almost three decades of service to small and medium-sized businesses in accounts, payroll and business support.

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, said: “This new business hub is something very close to my heart.  Working with iota Business, it will encourage entrepreneurs out of their bedrooms into cost-effective accommodation on a flexible basis, with the added benefit of having chartered accountants, business advisers and other experts on-hand.”

Ali Akbor, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, added:
“It is exciting for us to have this incubator opening at the Unity Business Centre.  Working in partnership with iota Business, I’m delighted that we’re able to offer a service to the business community, particularly to new businesses, to encourage them to employ and train a lot of people.”