Trust-funded drop-in service to open for start-ups

Thanks to funding from The Oxford Trust, a new ‘drop-in’ service will be launched this autumn that provides start-up companies with co-working options and dedicated desk space at the Oxford Centre for Innovation (OCFI.)

The Pod, an 80 sq.metre space within the OCFI, will soon be home to 25 drop-in / flexible work stations, five permanent work stations and presentation AV facilities. It will provide businesses with a flexible desk and access to broadband in a co-working space from £75 per month. A selection of packages will be available on an hourly or daily basis per month. Interested businesses simply need to contact the centre and book a desk in advance or could even reserve on the same day, subject to availability.

 

The Pod has been funded by the Trust and will be managed by Oxford Innovation.

Margaret Hewitt, Centre Director at OCFI, said: “We decided to create The Pod following a number of enquiries from exciting businesses who require flexible office space in Oxford. The city is desperately short of office space in the OX1 central area and The Pod will make space available to companies as they grow, helping to cultivate jobs and wealth.”

Steve Burgess, Chief Executive of The Oxford Trust, said: “The Trust is committed to supporting economic growth through encouraging innovation and so we’re delighted to be supporting the development of The Pod. Our experience shows that providing affordable office space in the city is vital to helping local science and innovation businesses get established so this new venture is an exciting addition to our existing portfolio of activities that foster enterprise.”

Businesses using The Pod will have the opportunity to benefit from the extended Oxford Centre For Innovation team, who will be on hand to provide telephone and reception services. It is also possible to obtain a mail address, locker space and dedicated broadband.

For further information about The Pod or office space at Oxford Centre For Innovation or One St. Aldates, contact Margaret Hewitt: [email protected] or visit pod.ocfi.co.uk.