Tel: 01865 261100

marketing@critchleys.co.uk

Technology & innovation

Technology and innovation is a thriving sector in the South East, with science parks, high tech incubators and innovation centres mushrooming. Young entrepreneurial businesses and university spin-outs sit alongside more established, but no less innovative technology-based businesses. From biotechnology and nanotechnology to automotive and precision engineering, technology underpins a broad cross-section of the region’s growth and prosperity.

Creating a successful technology business is about more than just good technology – it requires imagination, drive and commercial acumen. Funding is crucial in this sector, and a number of dedicated investment networks have been set up to support technology-based businesses at all stages in their lifecycle.

Getting the structure of a technology and innovation business right from the beginning is vital. Tackling issues such as founder shares, intellectual property, environmental taxes and institutional ownership early on can save money, and avoid all sorts of complications further down the line.

Research and development tax credits have recently been opened up, as the government expanded the definition of R&D to include activities which previously weren’t eligible. Making the best of these incentives can be complex, particularly when they interact with R&D grants (formerly SMART awards).

Critchleys’ commitment to this entrepreneurial sector is demonstrated by our involvement in technology-focused investment networks such as OION and OEI.

We have also worked with spin-outs from Imperial College, London, Birmingham University, Oxford University, Oxford Instruments and Rutherford Appleton Laboratories.