New Hub for Innovation and Enterprise (HIVE)

The University’s dedicated incubator, Kent Enterprise Hub has moved and is being relaunched to enable the University to support its growing number of student and staff entrepreneurs.

The new Hub for Innovation and Enterprise (HIVE) situated at the Canterbury Innovation Centre (CIC) will act as the new base for student entrepreneurship, start-up support and a start-up incubation space at the University.

The new open plan office environment includes hot desks for budding entrepreneurs all situated conveniently just a short distance from central campus amongst a thriving business environment within CIC.

HIVE is supported by two key strands: Student Enterprise to support students with their entrepreneurial ideas and Start Up for potential business owners looking to take their innovative ideas forward.

HIVE is able to support the growth of the company through a variety of additional services for up to three years providing a stable platform and base for the business.

Entrepreneurs will be able to:

Develop their business idea
Access to sector specific mentors
Business advice sessions
Seminars, exhibitions, monthly events and competitions

Marcus Wright, Enterprise Manager said: ‘After 11 years of dedicated incubation space and enterprise support for students, staff and alumni, it is fantastic to receive support from the University for the continuation and growth of these activities. Kent is recognised as leading the way in student enterprise and start-up creation.

‘In addition to Kent’s students, staff and recent alumni graduates from across the UK and world-wide will be able to access HIVE, firmly embracing the University’s European and international approach.’

If you are interested in launching your own start-up business or simply looking for professional advice to pursue your entrepreneurial dream, then contact the HIVE team at 01227 824641 or email hive@kent.ac.uk.