Entrepreneur incubator takes some tips from Down Under

ENTREPRENEURS in Sheffield will have a new support service to help turn their ideas into reality.

The University of Sheffield and Sheffield City Council have based Re:New on an Australian model, from broadcaster and writer Marcus Westbury.

The council has been working on how to utilise buildings for small-scale services and events, but they are preparing to take this “to the next level”

The Re:New project will provide support for startups and creatives looking to work in the city centre, and will support them with up to £10,000 funding.

Professor Vanessa Toulmin, from the University of Sheffield who is chairperson of Re:New and director of City Cultural Engagement, said: “We were truly inspired by Marcus during his visit to the city last year and I am delighted that by working with our partners in the city, we have come together to launch ReNew.
“The project will not only transform and bring vibrancy to buildings in the city which otherwise would have stood empty or even derelict, it will give start-up businesses a chance to flourish and hopefully increase footfall to the city in turn boosting the local economy.”

Councillor Leigh Bramall, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Business, Skills and Development said: “We have recognised the importance of supporting meanwhile uses for several years now, but we want to take this concept to the next level with a more organised scheme developed with city partners.”