The University of Manchester Innovation Centre’s (UMIC) Events arm has delivered record revenues following a comprehensive refurbishment of its conference spaces.
Throughout 2017 UMIC hosted 462 events at its Grafton Street base while also landing 47 new clients.
Acteon, Aeirtec, Blackboard International, Cadtek Enabling education network and Lan2Lan are among the businesses to have used UMIC’s seven events and conference spaces.
The Christie Charitable Fund, The University of Manchester and Child Poverty Action Group have all continued to use the Innovation Centre.
Colin Curwen, UMIC Events Executive, said revenues jumped 32% from 2016 with further upgrades to the main atrium also due in Autumn this year.
He said: “The past 12 months at UMIC Events has been eventful to say the least.
“The seven spaces we offer – which lie in the heart of the Oxford Road Corridor innovation district – are all in prime condition and seem to attract a wide range of organisations.
“Our biggest space, The Dalton Room which can hold up to 140 guests, has undergone major technological improvements. Users now have access to more space, a 98-inch 4k UHD screen and new click share technology which all adds up to a slicker and more welcoming environment.
“The UMIC boardroom and Pink, Blue, Green and Yellow rooms cater for two to 14 people, while the Innovation Suite is the second largest room and a popular choice for events for 14 to 50 delegates. All have fresh appeal, including new lighting and coloured vinyl additions to the glass windows.”
UMIC, home to biotech and hi-tech companies, has also increased its tenant engagement activity with weekly yoga classes available to anyone working inside the Innovation Centre.
Later this year the Innovation Centre’s atrium will be redesigned to become a business hub ideal for networking and co-working in modern purpose-built surroundings.
Colin added: “We are well positioned to continue our growth story while remaining agile to the needs of current and potential clients.
“We are also thankful to the Alliance Manchester Business School for its continued support and look forward to the remainder of 2018.”
