Bridging the gap - moving the vision towards reality
The excitement of the final lap of the first phase of The Innovation Hub's infrastructure development is almost palpable this month as construction teams finalise activities on site before year-end and the Hub team prepares for the move to their new premises.
The challenges of bridging the innovation gap between R&D and business by launching The Innovation Hub as a going concern - which we will do early in the new year - have focused mainly in two important areas. Creating an environment where cutting edge technologies can be developed and commercialised and building the networks and partnerships that will create a knowledge-driven community. During the past year we have made significant progress in identifying clients, and partnering with stakeholders and knowledge workers, locally and abroad, to bring to reality a Science Park that will spur high-tech business growth in Gauteng, and impact by example into Africa.
Significant growth has taken place in our pilot activities, while the launch of a number of value-added initiatives that typify the unique benefits of a Science Park have stimulated active participation in our activities and our INNOV8 community has grown to almost 3 000 members. The success rate of companies in business incubation has been 79%, while the success of the CoachLab leadership development programme has resulted in additional partners being south to expand this collaborative model.
It is clear that our initiatives are fulfilling a need in stimulating the growth of a high-tech, knowledge intensive cluster in Gauteng. Backed by the support from our shareholder and our partners, and the commitment of our team, we are ready to meet the challenges brought by the year ahead. We are looking forward to greater levels of activity in attracting tenants, expanding our community initiatives and forging new partnerships, both local and international.
Thank you for your continued interest in The Innovation Hub and your ongoing support in helping us achieve our objectives.
Enjoy the year-end festivities and take time to relax and find joy and peace with your loved ones!
Dr Neville Comins
CEO
The Innovation Hub Management Company (Pty) Ltd
[Back to top]
Next
|
This month's highlights
