Keele University Science and Innovation Park has been shortlisted in three categories at a UK-wide awards ceremony.

The UK Science Park Association 40th Anniversary Awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of Science Parks across the country.  Keele University has been nominated in two categories, with one of its longest-serving resident companies, Biocomposites, being shortlisted in a third.

The Science and Innovation Park has been shortlisted in the Building Environment Sustainability and Innovation category in recognition of its Smart Energy Network Demonstrator environment, which enables the 70-acre Park to be powered by up to 50% renewable energy created by Keele’s on-site wind turbines and solar panels, as well as supporting research and innovation in energy management.

Biocomposites, an international medical device company based at Keele for almost 20 years, has been nominated for the Most Successful Company Growth award.  From a base of 15 employees in 2004, Biocomposites now employ 535 people across the world from their Keele headquarters, and the company cites their location on the Science and Innovation Park as a key contributor to their success.

The third nomination recognises the most inspirational Science Park talent under 35.  Joe Caine, Head of Keele’s Science and Innovation Park, has been instrumental in the rapid growth of the Park, which in turn has led to the growth of a vibrant community of businesses which call Keele home.

Speaking about the nominations, Ann Pittard, Director of Keele University Science and Innovation Park, said: “I am delighted that Joe, Biocomposites and the Park as a whole has been recognised in these national awards.

“The Science and Innovation Park has come a long way since its initial conception in the mid-1980s, providing high-quality accommodation and bespoke growth support opportunities to hundreds of businesses over the past four decades.  

“The Park has increased significantly in recent years, adding a further four Innovation Centres, a UK charity HQ, a new research-led Veterinary School, a Courtyard by Marriott hotel, and a renewable energy generation park – with exciting plans for further development over the next few years.”

The winners will be announced at the UKSPA 40th Anniversary Conference on 17 October 2024.