Microsoft and The EpiCentre support early-stage innovators

The collaboration combines flexible office space and in-house business support services with access to Microsoft’s cutting-edge technology and expertise.

The alliance is designed to further enhance the suite of support The EpiCentre offers entrepreneurs and SMEs within the centre. This offer is being rolled out to occupiers throughout Oxford Innovation Space’s 32 centres across the UK and Ireland.

“Working with Microsoft is a major milestone in our ongoing mission to support innovation and entrepreneurship across the UK,” said Gary Jennings, The EpiCentre’s Innovation Director.

“With Microsoft’s world-class technology and our comprehensive business support framework and toolkit, we are creating environments where businesses can develop groundbreaking solutions and scale rapidly.

“B2B Software companies in our network can access programmes that offer an extensive range of resources, including Microsoft’s industry-leading Artificial Intelligence services, tech support, and business tools to help them boost their capabilities and fulfil their ambitions.”

Microsoft offers a market-leading cloud platform that integrates three powerful solutions – Microsoft 365, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Microsoft Azure – as well as delivering dedicated support programmes to assist start-ups and scale-ups. This comprehensive suite enables digital transformation, providing innovative businesses with the tools they need to succeed.

“We are excited to be working with Oxford Innovation Space to help start-ups seize the AI opportunity and build innovative solutions on the Microsoft Cloud,” said Paul Veck, Strategic Partner Development, Microsoft UK.

“AI has the Ability to transform every industry and the innovative solutions that the startup community are developing will play a key role in this transformation.”

Gary Jennings added: “We employ a holistic approach to supporting entrepreneurs by designing and managing space with their needs in mind as well as providing in-house business support services.

“Currently supporting more than 870 businesses through our centres we play an integral role in building communities of SMEs, championing innovation and driving local economic growth.

“As well as a growing network of partners and our own team of in-house experts, we are also able to connect businesses with potential investors through our sister company Oxford Innovation Finance and with specialist business support programmes through Oxford Innovation Advice.”