Celebrating 25 years of accelerating science and technology innovation

This spring, we’re celebrating 25 years of Culham Innovation Centre – and a quarter of a century spent supporting ambitious science and technology businesses to start, scale and succeed. 

Since opening our doors in 2001, we’ve supported more than 150 early-stage companies, helping to create over 600 high value jobs and accelerate the development of pioneering technologies across fusion energy, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and life sciences. 

Based at the heart of the UK Atomic Energy Authority’s (UKAEA) Culham Campus near Abingdon, we provide flexible office, laboratory and workshop space, alongside hands on business support, mentoring and a collaborative environment designed to help innovative businesses grow with confidence. 

Proven impact over 25 years 

To mark our 25 year milestone, an independent impact report by SQW highlights the exceptional performance of businesses that have been based at Culham Innovation Centre – reinforcing our role as a key contributor to Oxfordshire’s innovation ecosystem and local economy. 

The report shows that companies currently or previously located at the Centre collectively hold over £80 million in assets and demonstrate significantly higher rates of patenting than the wider UK business population. They also outperform national averages when it comes to raising growth capital, having secured £254 million in external investment and £25 million in grant funding since 2010. 

Jo Stevens, Managing Director of Oxford Innovation Space, said: 

“Celebrating 25 years of Culham Innovation Centre is a moment to recognise the extraordinary companies and individuals that have made this community what it is today. We are incredibly proud to have supported so many businesses to start-up, scale-up and bring pioneering ideas to life. 

“The findings from this latest impact report demonstrates the distinctive and valuable role that the Culham Innovation Centre plays within Oxfordshire’s innovation ecosystem and reinforces Culham Campus’ position as a world-class environment for science and technology led businesses.” 

Supporting world leading innovation 

Over the past 25 years, we’ve played an important role in strengthening the UK’s fusion supply chain. One of our most well-known graduates is Tokamak Energy, which began its journey here in 2010. Today, the company is a global leader in fusion energy, employing over 300 people and operating from multiple sites in the UK, as well as offices in Japan and the United States. 

As David Kingham, Founder and Senior Advisor at Tokamak Energy, explains: 

“We graduated from the Centre after three years and now, more than 10 years later, we employ over 300 people, nearly all in Oxfordshire. We wouldn’t be where we are now without the early-stage support, we received. Culham Innovation Centre helped us tap into available programmes and grants, alongside providing flexible space and inhouse support.” 

Fusion is just one part of our diverse and growing community. More recent success stories include GeneFirst, Luffy AI, Sigma Lithium and Active Needle, each benefiting from our specialist facilities and tailored support. 

A place to grow ambitious ideas 

Founded in January 2016, Active Needle moved into Culham Innovation Centre in April of the same year and has grown significantly since. The medical device company develops innovative needle technology that improves visibility and precision during biopsies and drug delivery, while helping to reduce pain for patients. 

Through Culham Innovation Centre, we deliver a comprehensive package of flexible workspace, events, mentoring and business support, designed to meet the complex and fast evolving needs of science and technology led businesses. 

Looking ahead 

As we celebrate our 25year anniversary, our focus remains firmly on the future – continuing to support the next generation of innovators working at the forefront of science, engineering and technology, right here on the Culham Campus. 

Download the SQW report here, and get in touch with us today to see how you could be part of the next 25 years!