Business centre gears up for launch

A business centre is set to launch at the Piece Mill, next to the historic Piece Hall in Halifax in May.

Leeds Beckett University, in partnership with Calderdale Council, hope the centre will drive growth amongst early-stage and growing businesses.

The latest university business centre joins others in Leeds and Wakefield.

Professor Peter Slee, vice chancellor at Leeds Beckett University, said: “Leeds Beckett is committed to supporting growth and prosperity in our region. This initiative is the latest example of this and will provide access to resources and knowledge that will accelerate growth in new and developing businesses.”

The leader of Calerdale Council, Cllr Tim Swift, said: “We’re delighted to work in partnership with Leeds Beckett, and it’s great news that the University Business Centre (UBC) is opening its doors.

“We have a strong micro-business base here in Calderdale and through the close partnership with Leeds Beckett and the UBC we have a real opportunity to help and encourage businesses to share knowledge and inspire innovation.

“A developing and thriving business landscape will bring real benefits for Calderdale, boosting the local economy and leading to the creation of new jobs for the borough.”

The University Business Centre offers businesses access to a Halifax town centre-registered business address, private newly-renovated office space with gigabit broadband as well as a virtual office, co-working and hot-desk facilities.
Companies will also receive business advice and mentoring from the university as well as professional training and development and knowledge transfer and research expertise.

Clients will have free access to Leeds Beckett’s business lounges based in Halifax and Wakefield, which are shared with specialist member organisations.

The centre is part of a network of Leeds Beckett University Business Centres that have been operating for more than 15 years.