In the heart of the picturesque Gloucestershire countryside, nestled within the grounds of Hartpury University and College, lies a hidden gem for innovation – the Tech Box Park. A rural hub for tech and creative businesses buzzing with passion, energy, and ideas. This cutting-edge facility is not just a space; it’s a thriving ecosystem designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and technological advancement.
Here’s more about Hartpury’s Tech Box Park from the Tech Box Manager, Catherine Briggs:
- Where are you?
Hartpury’s Tech Box Park is located on Hartpury’s commercial farm, just a stone’s throw away from the historic city of Gloucester. The serene surroundings provide an inspiring backdrop for individuals and teams looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life while remaining connected to a vibrant community.
- How would you describe your space?
The Tech Box Park is more than just a physical space; it’s a dynamic environment designed to fuel innovation. The facilities boast innovative co-working spaces and modern meeting rooms. Our repurposed shipping containers clad in cedar wood complement the local environment at Hartpury’s commercial Home Farm – creating an atmosphere that promotes focus and collaboration.
- Who will I meet there?
Our members come in different shapes and sizes. You may be an entrepreneur starting up a new business but with an idea in mind, an established business looking to test and trial new products for the agri-food sector, or a freelancer looking to work more flexibly.
In all cases, we have what you need to thrive. The Tech Box Park is a melting pot of talent, bringing together entrepreneurs, tech professionals, researchers, and students from Hartpury University and beyond. The diverse community ensures a rich tapestry of skills and perspectives, fostering an environment where ideas flourish and collaborations thrive.
- Can I bring my team (do you have offices as well as co-working?)
Absolutely! The Tech Box Park offers both co-working spaces for freelancers and small teams, as well as dedicated offices for those seeking a more private and personalised work environment. The flexibility caters to the varied needs of businesses, whether you’re a startup looking for a collaborative space or an established company in need of a dedicated office.
- Is there somewhere to meet clients?
Certainly! Our five Tech Box Park units and Agri-Tech Centre event spaces are perfect for client meetings, presentations, product launches and workshops. The professional atmosphere will enhance your credibility and provide a unique space for productive discussions.
- Do you run any events?
Yes. The Tech Box Park is not just a workspace, it’s a community hub. We host regular events, workshops, and networking sessions to facilitate knowledge exchange and foster connections – there’s always something happening to keep you engaged and informed!
- What are the perks?
Members of the Tech Box Park community enjoy a range of perks that include testing and trialling facilities at Hartpury’s commercial farm and an extended network of Hartpury contacts and sites plus dedicated workspace and exclusive events. Plus, the relationship with Hartpury University provides access to research expertise and emerging talent, giving businesses a competitive edge.
The collaborative spirit and focus on sustainability make it a standout destination for forward-thinking (and forward-looking!) organisations. There’s also free on-site parking and coffee!
- What makes your space different?
What sets Tech Box Park apart is its ability to empower businesses to find solutions to real-world challenges in the agricultural and land-based industries. From enabling a social enterprise to create a test bed for trialling hemp derivatives in animal bedding to showcasing the world’s most innovative anti-theft solution for agricultural machinery and testing 100% plant-based compostable packaging on hay bales – Tech Box Park has already provided an invaluable space and place for innovative thinking.
- How much is it to be based there?
Our Tech Box Park offers six membership opportunities catering to diverse business needs. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a growing startup, there’s a membership option for you. From virtual to full residential – membership packages start from as little as £60 per month for a virtual membership for example, and flexible Day Passes are also available at £20 per day. The investment in a Tech Box Park membership goes beyond a workspace; it’s an investment in a supportive community and the resources needed for success.
- How do I find out more?
Discover how this innovative space can elevate your business or career on our website.
Interested in booking a tour? Contact Catherine Briggs, Tech Box Park Manager via catherine.briggs@hartpury.ac.uk or by calling 01452 702219.
Hartpury’s Tech Box Park is not just a workspace; it’s a dynamic ecosystem where innovation thrives, collaboration flourishes, and businesses soar to new heights. As technology continues to evolve, this hidden gem in the heart of Gloucestershire is poised to be a driving force behind the next wave of groundbreaking ideas and solutions.
