WIREDGOV

For the second year running, STFC’s Innovation Technology Access Centre (I-TAC) has been named ‘Chemical Services Provider of the Year’ at the prestigious Chemicals Northwest Awards 2013.

The award, which recognises companies that provide an un-paralleled level of service and support to their chemicals-based customers, was awarded to I-TAC for the unique combination of facilities, expertise and business support it offers small companies within the sector.

Dr Martin Morlidge, I-TAC Manager, said: “To win this award for the second year running is welcome recognition of both our efforts and success in drawing promising businesses to the North-West where they can continue to develop, grow and achieve success. We are really proud of our involvement with the companies at I-TAC and we estimate that, with our support, they have attracted over £20 million of investment. A number of the companies are also sealing some impressively high profile contracts.”

With access to leading research facilities and multi-million pound equipment, I-TAC provides start-up companies with the technical advantages normally only available to global industry leaders. I-TAC companies also benefit from the business support provided by STFC and the wider Sci-Tech Daresbury Science and Innovation Campus, enabling them to develop their businesses and bring their products to market successfully.

I-TAC companies have developed an enviable list of clients and partners over the last couple of years, the most recent of which have involved the US Department of Energy, as well as industry leaders such as Marks and Spencer, Tesco and Rentokil.

Dr Morlidge added: “At I-TAC we are revolutionising the future of chemical research and development through our unique relationship between research institutions and the commercial world.We are always interested to hear from other small companies and start-ups who think they could benefit from the unique support and facilities package we offer here, and invite them to get in touch.”

Notes to editors

Image and caption

Image 1: I-TAC at the Chemicals Northwest Awards 2013 - (left to right) Andrew Corness (Judge, Kelly Services), STFC’s Martin Morlidge and Charlotte Thompson, Mark Edwards (Judge, BBC North West)
Credit: Chemicals Northwest

Contact

Wendy Ellison
STFC Press Officer
Tel: +44 (0)1925 603232
Mob: +44 (0)7919 548012