A self-described surfer of coffee shops, John Cole ran his fledgling IT firm from a laptop, hopping on to wi-fi networks to support customers.
The digital nomad soon found that his Hampshire-based business, established three years ago and called CTECH Business Solutions, required a permanent base due to much larger-than-anticipated growth.
Fareham Innovation Centre has seen occupancy rise by 17% over the past 12 months.
The business hub bucked economic trends with a series of signings and on-site expansions since May 2020.
With 55 serviced offices and 20 fully occupied workshops, the centre is now home to 60 SMEs – many of which are involved in technology.
When two recruitment consultants left their company to set up on their own in a £39 billion industry, it was a case of “eyes wide shut”.
Fast-forward four years, Source Solutions’ Tom James and Simon Horspool, both in their early 30s, have survived the perilous beginnings – 60% of start-ups reportedly go under within 36 months.
The firm, which provides recruitment solutions in IT and engineering, moved into Fareham Innovation Centre, which overlooks Solent Airport near Gosport, 18 months ago
Personal flight mobility once belonged to the realm of science fiction.
Now, thanks to innovation by a Hampshire-based company, lightweight jetpacks are set to play a life-saving role in rescue and disaster relief.
Tech start-up Maverick Aviation is developing hands-free devices, which use micro gas turbine engines to propel first responders through the air and reach inaccessible areas safely and quickly.
Other applications include engineering and maintenance, such as onshore and offshore wind farms, along with policing, security and defence, as well as adventure experiences.
Two companies at a thriving tech hub for start-ups and micro firms in the South have been given a new year business boost. Psion Consulting and LR Animation Studios share one of the 55 serviced offices at Fareham Innovation Centre in South Hampshire. As an occupancy benefit, they receive complimentary business support from the in-house Innovation Director, Monika Dabrowska
A tech start-up in the South is revolutionising marine electric propulsion as the UK moves towards zero emissions by 2050. Based at Fareham Innovation Centre, near Fareham in south Hampshire, the company is disrupting the traditional market of petrol and diesel engine drives.
