Unit 9
The Unit 9 med-tech incubator is a unique facility that provides flexible, low-cost support for technology-based companies to do initial research, proof-of-concept work, or prototyping, without an equipment cost burden.
The Unit 9 journey
Unit 9 is a launch pad for pre-revenue companies at the start of their commercialisation journey.
In the early years many companies do not have the cash flow to commit to a long-term lease or buy expensive laboratory equipment. Moreover, they are often set up by scientific researchers who have not run a company before.
Unit 9 members pay a subsidised licence fee that rises to a commercial rate by year three. Business support is provided during residency and tenants join a vibrant community of research-led companies at Birmingham Research Park.
Benefits
- Access to meeting facilities at Birmingham Research Park and cell culture or microbiology facilities at the BioHub Birmingham® (by arrangement)
- Members benefit from an equipment-sharing agreement with the University, membership of a biomedical purchasing consortium, and a package of health and well-being services.
- A business support programme, designed by specialists from University of Birmingham Enterprise, shares business knowledge and networks, and signposts to opportunities for funding or collaboration, and the talent needed to for business growth.
- University of Birmingham Enterprise works with members so they can transition their operations to a new base with the West Midlands at the end of the licence period.
Application criteria
Unit 9 supports companies that are looking to develop innovative devices, medicines, procedures, or systems to solve a health problem or improve quality of life.
Begin a Unit 9 application
Companies need to be able to articulate their future plans and ambitions on entry, and will be asked to engage with business support programmes provided, and attend a minimum of one mentoring session per month.
Companies are asked to participate in stakeholder group meetings to discuss progress of project milestones and evaluate enquiries and help develop case studies, to support promotional activity and follow requirements, including brand guidelines, of any funding bodies.
Affordable laboratory space is vital for small startups, who need to make prototypes to prove the value of new products. We also received support from University of Birmingham Enterprise, and the networking with other businesses, funding opportunities, legal and IP advice, events, and introduction to interested investors and potential collaborators has been truly valuable.
Unit 9 in the news
Contact us
If you have any questions about how we can help your business or if you need more information to progress your application, please get in touch.
Email the Unit 9 team