The Advanced Manufacturing strategy announced on Tuesday by Lord Mandelson commits to a significant level of support to fund innovative work in the microelectronics design sector. This investment includes in future a Centre of Excellence for Silicon Design in the South West.
With £500,000 for the initial project, it will assist around 250 companies, potentially creating up to 100 new jobs and have an impact on up to 200 firms linked to the business cluster.
The strategy also sets out a range of support measures for businesses which use a high level of design or scientific skills to produce technologically complex products and processes.
As part of the strategy negotiations are also underway for the Government to provide ‘Repayable Launch Investment’ to Airbus for wing design at Filton in Bristol. This will enhance the skills and capabilities of the company’s 10,500 workforce in Bristol on what is the most technologically advanced part of aircraft structure.
Stephen Peacock, Executive Director for Enterprise and Innovation at the South West RDA, said:
“This investment recognises the strategic importance of the microelectronics cluster in underpinning many industries from a digital Britain to support our low carbon agenda.”
Addtional information
Fiona Clampin
PR Consultant
South West RDA
Tel: +44 (0)1392 229188
Email: fiona.clampin@southwestrda.org.uk
Website: www.southwestrda.org.uk
For more details contact: South West RDA press office: 01392 229389 – or on Twitter at SWRDAPress
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The South West RDA leads the development of a sustainable economy, investing to unlock the region’s business potential. It is helping companies respond to the economic crisis and charts a course for recovery. The RDA is developing or expanding initiatives which include: establishing a Business Loan Fund; coordinating the response to large companies in difficulty; preparing for economic recovery. More information can be found at www.southwestrda.org.uk
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