Surrey Research Park celebrates 40 years of innovation in 2025. And 600 people including businesses, staff and students came together to celebrate the achievements.
Surrey Research Park is a vibrant innovative business community of more than 200 companies across a 70 acre site.
It was established in 1985 by the University of Surrey. And businesses on the park are estimated to contribute ยฃ660 million a year to the Surrey economy.
Surrey Research Park 40 years celebration saw a community festival taking place earlier this month (June 17, 2025).
Surrey Research Park 40 years celebration
About 600 people โ including Guildford MP Zรถe Franklin โ gathered to mark 40 years of innovation in Surrey.
Employees from 60 companies and partner organisations took part in a dynamic expo, showcasing their sector-leading innovation, research, and company stories.
Several guest speakers also shared fond memories of their time at the park, including:
Dr Malcolm Parry OBE, one of the Parkโs visionary founders
The celebrations also provided students from the Universityโs Department for Hospitality and Events to gain hands-on experience in event management.
Meanwhile, over in the Surrey Technology Centre, the Space Enterprise Lab was temporarily converted into a high-tech TV studio, livestreaming a two-hour innovation and technology show to viewers around the world.
Caroline Fleming, Director of Surrey Innovation District and Innovation Lead for Surrey Research Park, said:
โI think everyone really felt the vibe of a strong community thatโs been built here. We heard from companies proud to call it their home, and from researchers excited to do more with those businesses. For me, itโs been a fantastic event.โ
About Surrey Research Park
Surrey Research Park offersย versatile office spaceย in aย vibrant innovative community. It helps meet the needs of pioneering tech and research-led companies โ fromย solopreneursย andย entrepreneurs,ย ambitious startupsย andย microbusinessesย toย SMEs,ย large companies, multinationalsย andย primes.
By joining the Surrey Research Park community, your business can benefit from:
Access to top-tier talent, expert collaborations, and world-class facilitiesย that span disciplines and sectors.
Spaces for every business need, from workstations in our incubator and small offices to expansive units up to 40,000 sq ft, designed to support your growth and innovation.
Exceptional connectivityย with on-site parking and a strategic location near London and major international hubs.
Looking for more bespoke support to grow your Surrey business? Contact our team of experts for a free consultation via our Business Support Form.
The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy revealed
Published 26 June 2025
Business news, Innovation, Skills and workforce
The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy has been revealed by government this week. It sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business.
The government says the UK’s Industrial Strategy provides long-term clarity and stability to grow the UK economy.
It will include targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow. Ministers also promise reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.
There’s a focus on eight key high-growth sectors. Some of these sectors – such as creative industries, digital and technologies, and professional and business services – are real sector strengths for Surrey.
Ministers say future funding will focus on driving growth in these high-growth sectors. Investment will also focus on funding for SMEs, upskilling the UK’s workforce and redeveloping strategic sites.
Not all of this funding will be immediately available to Surrey. Some will only be available to those areas with directly-elected mayors, such as West Midlands and Greater Manchester. Surrey is currently on the fast-track programme to devolution – but will not have an elected mayor until after local government reorganisation is completed.
The plan will have a direct impact on Surrey’s economy both now and in the future. It aligns closely with the priorities in the Surrey Economic Growth Strategy.
And we – as part of Surrey County Council – will work with government, businesses and partners to make sure Surrey makes the most of the opportunities – ensuring we meet the demands of our 110,000 businesses while ensuring no one is left behind.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britainโs economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.
“In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in peopleโs pockets as part of the plan for change.
“This is how we power Britainโs future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.”
What is the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy?
The Governmentโs Industrial Strategy 2025 is also known as Invest 2035. It is a 10-year plan to drive economic growth by supporting eight high-growth sectors.
The sectors – known as the IS-8 – are advanced manufacturing, clean energy, creative industries, defence, digital and technologies, financial services, life sciences, and professional and business services.
The Strategyโs plan of action includes:
Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs. Increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to ยฃ25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. Additional ยฃ4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors.
Upskilling the nation with an extra ยฃ1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29. Delivering more opportunities to learn and earn in our high-growth sectors including new short courses.
Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators.
Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.
Boosting R&D spending to ยฃ22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8. Allocated more than ยฃ2bn for AI and ยฃ2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors.
Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce.
Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in our growth sectors and foundational industries.
Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on agreements with Japan, the US, India, and the EU.
Reducing planning timelines and cutting costs for developers, by hiring more planners, streamlining pre-application requirements and combining environmental obligations.
Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.
Supporting the UKโs city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new ยฃ600m Strategic Sites Accelerator.
Industrial Strategy – sector focus
The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and thereโs potential for faster growth. These are:
Advanced Manufacturing
Clean Energy Industries
Creative Industries
Defence
Digital and Technologies
Financial Services
Life Sciences
Professional and Business Services
Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs.
Five sector plans have been published this week:
Advanced Manufacturing – up to ยฃ4.3 billion in funding, including up to ยฃ2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years. Aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.
Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035. Total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to ยฃ1 billion.
Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a ยฃ380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts. This will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.
Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses. More than ยฃ2 billion allocated to drive the AI Action Plan. ยฃ187 million for training one million young people in tech skills. Targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies.
Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the worldโs most trusted adviser to global industry. Plan to revolutionise the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI. Also working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.
How will the UK’s Industrial Strategy impact Surrey?
The industrial strategy provides a long-term vision for growing the UK economy.
Surrey has very strong local sector specialisms in some of the key high-growth sectors. This includes professional services, finance, creative and digital. We also have well-established clusters and innovation assets across most of the IS-8 sectors.
We also have demonstrated a commitment to unlocking local economic growth via:
strategic partnerships, such as the Civic Agreement for Surrey with Surreyโs three leading universities,
Teachers become students for the day visiting some of Surrey’s brightest and best businesses as part of broader efforts to inspire the region’s future workforce
As this academic year begins to draw to a close, a number of schools, special schools, and colleges across Surrey are taking part in Surrey Careers Hubโs 2025 Teacher Encounters initiative.
This dynamic series of workplace visits is designed to connect educators with leading Surrey employers and has seen enthusiastic participation from teachers across a wide range of Surrey educational settings across the county, helping to bridge the gap between education and the world of work. (See full list of participating institutions below.)
These educators are taking up the opportunity to visit and engage with a diverse range of Surrey employers, including Wates Group, Royal Holloway University, CGI, Supermassive Games, Home Counties Carers, AtkinsRรฉalis, Yunex Traffic, ramsac, Macro and Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust.
What’s involved in a Teacher Encounter?
The visits offer valuable insights into the skills, knowledge, and attributes that employers are seeking in the future workforce. The programme helps educators to understand the wide range of career opportunities available and gain a deeper understanding of how their subject is applied practically in the workplace which they can take back to their classrooms to enrich their curriculum with real-world industry examples, while enabling them to build ongoing relationships with employers.
Following each Teacher Encounter, participating teachers will develop bespoke teaching resources that will translate newly acquired industry knowledge into practical classroom applications or resources to share with their teaching colleagues. The initiative aims to produce a diverse and inclusive suite of materials, tailored to a wide range of subjects and adaptable to the needs of students from all types of institutions.
Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth at Surrey County Council, praised the initiative:
โThe Teachers Encounters programme is a vital investment in the future of Surreyโs economy. By equipping our teachers with up-to-date industry knowledge and meaningful employer connections, we empower them to better guide their students in making informed career choices. This initiative not only benefits our young people but also strengthens the talent pipeline for local businesses, ensuring Surrey remains a thriving hub of innovation and opportunity.โ
Views from participants
Tim Browning, Recruitment Lead at Supermassive Games said:
โThis programme is a fantastic way to bridge the gap between education and industry. Equipping teachers with industry knowledge is crucial for inspiring and preparing students for their future careers. We’re already looking forward to next year’s programme!”
While Ellie Smith, AtkinsRรฉalis Social Value Consultant shared:
โThe Teacher Encounter programme highlights ncounters programme highlights the importance of collaboration between educators and industry professionals in shaping a skilled workforce and AtkinsRรฉalis is proud to have taken part.โ
With a delighted teacher from East Surrey College adding:
โIt was both enlightening and informative to hear about the company’s early careers programme. The insights and perspectives shared will undoubtedly be incredibly valuable for our students as they look to progress into their careers after completing their college studies.โ
The programme is part of Surrey Careers Hubโs ongoing commitment to enhancing careers education and ensuring that young people are well-prepared for the rapidly evolving world of work. By fostering stronger links between education and industry, the Careers Hub is helping to create a more informed, inspired, and future-ready generation.
Surrey employers who would like to get involved in the 2026 Teacher Encounters programme should contact careers.hub@surreycc.gov.uk.
For updates on the Teacher Encounters programme and other Surrey Careers Hub activity, please follow us on LinkedIn
Surrey Educational settings that participated in Teacher Encounters this year:
Ashcombe School
Brooklands College
Carrington School
Collingwood College
East Surrey College
Epsom College
Esher Sixth Form College
Fox Grove School
Freemantles School
George Abbot School
Godalming College
Guildford County School
Heathside School
Hoe Valley School
Nescot
Pond Meadow School
Reigate College
Rosebery School
St Pauls Catholic College
The Beacon School
Therfield School
Thomas Knyvett College
Warlingham School
Wishmore Cross Academy
Woking College
Teacher Encounters visit to Wates Group. (Main image: Supermassive Games visit)
New National Biosecurity Centre receives ยฃ1 billion government investment
Published 24 June 2025
Business news, Innovation
A new National Biosecurity Centre will begin to take shape in a matter of months after government pledged ยฃ1 billion to the cutting-edge scientific campus in Surrey. When complete, the Animal and Plant Health Agency centre in Addlestone will serve as the UKโs foremost animal biosecurity facility.
Animal disease outbreaks represent a serious and increasing risk to public health, food security, and the UK economy.
The UK’s high containment laboratories for animal health are run by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) at Weybridge. They urgently need renewal to handle escalating disease risks, which is growing due to climate change.
The new facility will join a network of national centres set up by the Cabinet Office under the UK Biological Security Strategy. It will keep the public safe and is essential to responding to biological security risks.
Preparatory work at the Addlestone site is already underway. Planning consent has been secured and a contractor appointed to build the main new facilities.
The first interim labs to support critical science while we transform the site will be ready in 2027 and 2028. The main construction works start in 2027. And the full new National Biosecurity Centre will be live and operational in 2033/34.
Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said:
“We very much welcome this government investment into our region which strengthens Surrey’s reputation as a leading UK region for innovation and research.
“This cutting-edge facility will not only play a key role in protecting the nation’s health, it will also create jobs for residents and broader prosperity in our communities.
“As government looks to drive growth across the UK, our aim is to ensure that Surrey is a major part of that story โ and weโll continue to work with partners like the Animal and Plant Health Agency to make the most of opportunities, ensuring we meet the demands of our 110,000 businesses while ensuring no one is left behind.”
Why is a National Biosecurity Centre needed?
Approximately 60% of all known human infectious diseases are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to humans. And about 75% of emerging infectious diseases originate in animals. This makes the fight against these diseases about human health and security too.
Without strong and modernised biosecurity infrastructure, disease incursions could severely impact the UK’s farmers, agricultural production, devastate rural communities and disrupt key supply chains.
The export of livestock, meat and meat products, dairy and animal by-products is worth ยฃ16 billion per year to the UK economy.
The funding will now enhance the countryโs detection, surveillance and control capabilities for high-risk animal diseases. These include avian influenza, foot and mouth disease and African swine fever. It will also enhance the UK’s ability to manage concurrent disease outbreaks.
Jenny Stewart, Senior Science Director at the Animal and Plant Health Agency, said:
“This funding is a vital milestone in the delivery of a world-leading facility that will protect the UK from animal disease threats for decades to come.
“Our scientists and specialists at Weybridge are at the heart of the UKโs disease surveillance and response capability and provide a global centre of expertise.
“Investment on this scale will enable them to continue their critical work in modern, fit-for-purpose facilities, supported by the very latest technologies.”
What is the Animal and Plant Health Agency?
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has its headquarters in Weybridge. It works to safeguard animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy.
APHAโs central laboratory has been in Weybridge since 1917, when it was known as the Addlestone Institute.
It has a long history of work of national and international importance. This has contributed to Surrey being animal health being a key sector for Surrey’s economy.
In 1939 it began an urgent programme for the mass production of anthrax vaccine and antiserum. This was so the country would be able to respond to the threat of a biological warfare emergency.
More recent past achievements include eradicating swine fever in the 1960s. And characterising the first case of BSE in the 1980s. It also developed the first licensed vaccine for TB in badgers in 2009.
APHA was formed in 2014 by merging the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency with parts of the Food and Environment Research Agency.
The network of national centres announced by government this week marks a new chapter for APHA. It will ensure the UK is better prepared for a crisis, responding more effectively to incidents and delivering a more holistic approach to biological research.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:
“Farmers and food producers will now be better protected from diseases, our food security strengthened, and public health better safeguarded against future pandemics. This government is getting on with delivering on our Plan for Change.
“The new National Biosecurity Centre will play an essential role in addressing the full range of biological threats we face, including from hostile nations, and will ensure that the UK retains the scientific capability, infrastructure and expertise needed to lead international efforts to identify, manage, and mitigate disease threats in the years ahead.”
Local Government Reorganisation consultation now live
Published 18 June 2025
Business news
Have your say on the future of public services in Surrey via the Government’s Local Government Reorganisation consultation. This is part of the governmentโs devolution plans for transferring more powers from Whitehall to local or regional authorities.
It will help government to understand what residents, businesses and other stakeholders think about the changes in Surrey. They’ll use the results to help them make a final decision on which option is best for Surrey.
What is Local Government Reorganisation?
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is the process where all areas with two-tiers of councils are reorganised into fewer, unitary councils.
The new authorities would have responsibility for all local government services in their area. This includes refuse collection, highways, parks and open spaces, libraries, social care, education and planning. They would replace the current two-tier system of one county and 11 district / borough councils.
The creation of new unitary authorities would also unlock further devolved responsibilities for Surrey. These would sit with a directly elected mayor representing the whole of Surrey. And the mayor would provide strategic oversight for economic development, skills, transport and housing.
Other areas, such as Greater Manchester and the West Midlands, already operate successfully this way. It sees the strategic authority working with employers to drive growth. It also improves employment opportunities for residents and brings investment into their regions.
Surrey County Council, Elmbridge Borough Council and Mole Valley District Council are recommending Surrey is arranged into two new unitary councils, East Surrey and West Surrey.
A resident information event takes place on 7 July to explain LGR and the proposal. Anyone can sign up on the external LGR event page.
Tim Oliver OBE, Leader of Surrey County Council said:โWe urge everyone in Surrey to take part in this government consultation to help us build a stronger future for Surrey. Two unitary councils will simplify services, save money and strengthen communities. This is an important opportunity for people to have their say.
โThis is an exciting time, and Iโm confident that residents will feel the benefit of a new system of local government and community engagement in Surrey, with the proposal for two unitary councils supported by multiple partners who share an ambition to make this county stronger and fit for the future.โ
Other proposals were put forward to government. This includes a plan for three unitary councils supported by other district and borough councils in Surrey.
Ministers will make a final decision in the early Autumn.
LGR โ view from a business leader
Chris Hurren, chair of Surrey Business Leadersโ Forum, wrote an individual letter of support for the two unitary council proposal. He writes:
โWhile we recognise that LGR in itself is a matter for our local authority leaders to discuss directly with [government], on behalf of businesses across Surrey I want to reemphasise the importance of delivering strategic economic functions on a single county footprint.
โOur belief โ supported by examples of devolution elsewhere, such as Greater Manchester and the West Midlands โ is that business growth is dependent upon opportunities to maximise and leverage economies of scale, supporting cross-county collaboration between high-growth clusters and innovation assets.โ
He says: โWhichever path is taken through the Local Government Reorganisation and devolution in Surrey, future success will require collaborative working with strong and independent unitary authorities operating on functional economic areas with a fair and reasonable split of innovation assets and strategic towns.
โWe trust government and our local elected representatives to agree on the best way forward for the businesses, residents and communities of Surrey, ensuring that these authorities are well-placed to provide crucial, efficient and effective public services in the short and long term.โ
Supercharge your innovation journey with Innovate Local: South East
Published 17 June 2025
Events and awards, Innovation
Do you want to grow or improve your business but arenโt sure how to get started or where to turn? Then Innovate Local: South East could be the answer you’re looking for.
On 15 July, at Royal Holloway, Innovate UK will explore the power of innovation and how it can:ย ย
Drive business growth: learn how innovation can lead to increased profitability, market share, and customer loyalty.
Boost competitiveness: discover how staying ahead of industry trends and embracing innovation can give your business a competitive edge.
Foster resilience: in todayโs ever-changing business landscape, innovation is a key driver of adaptability and long-term success.
The day will also include dedicated sessions exploring opportunities, challenges, and innovation pathways within the defence and cyber security, AI, and creative industriesโproviding tailored insights and sector-specific support. There will be representatives from both Business Surrey and Made Smarter South East in attendance on the day, ready to share more information on how you can access funding and guidance to support your own innovation journey.
Who Should Attend?
Any business based in the South East from any sector / industry. Whether youโre a small start-up or an established enterprise, this event is designed to help you understand the power of innovation and its practical applications. It is the perfect opportunity for all South East businesses to connect with industry leaders, access funding, and fuel your innovation journey.
Why Attend?
Connect with innovation experts, funders and potential collaborators from your region.
Discover the opportunities and incentives for ambitious innovators and businesses in the South East.
Network with like-minded professionals from the South Eastโs thriving business community.
Take your next practical step towards transforming your business through innovation.
Don’t miss this chance to supercharge your business’s growth and competitiveness.
Roll Up Roll Up!ย Youโll see in this line up of grants and funding available that there are a fair few competitions, where your business can win a prize โฆ so whatโs the difference between a grant and a prize?ย
It seems to me that corporate philanthropy is a way for an organisation (or collaboration) to enhance their brand. Traditional grant giving programmes therefore give way to campaigns, competitions and programmes that support their brand and enhance it.
But whichever prize or grant you apply for the devil is in the details. Like we donโt just have one CV these days, there isnโt just one grant application that you can copy and paste into a new application form. Check the eligibility criteria, check the โprizeโ is one that supports your goals and then commit to writing (or producing) a bespoke application. Good Luck!
Rural England Prosperity Fund 2025
Farmers in Tandridge, Guildford and Waverley can secure a six-figure cash injection as part of wider efforts to boost growth in the county. Surrey County Council is offering capital grants of up to ยฃ120,000 to support innovative ideas to drive diversification in agriculture and generate new income streams while increasing the long-term sustainability of their estates.
Ideas could include establishing farm shops, developing agritourism, generating sustainable energy or cultivating new crops and livestock.
Reigate & Banstead Thriving Communities Match Fund
Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector (VCFS) organisations whose projects help communities in Reigate & Banstead to thrive can now apply for grants between ยฃ2,000 and ยฃ10,000 from a pot of ยฃ50,000.
If you work with local organisations whose projects help our communities to thrive, please encourage them to check the fund criteria and apply if they are eligible.
This isnโt exactly a funding pot but an opportunity for promotion. Small Business Saturday is always the first Saturday in December. Itโs been running for 12 years and is an opportunity to rally behind the small businesses we all love and wat to support.
#smallbiz100 highlights 100 small businesses, one a day for 100 days leading up to Small Business Saturday 2025! In the past the 100 have not only received exposure on Small Business Saturday’s social media channels and in the local and national press but also joined the Small Business Saturday team in London at receptions in Downing Street, House of Lords and with Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Accelerated Knowledge Transfer Competition โ Innovate UK
Innovate UK has opened a new round of its Accelerated Knowledge Transfer Competition (AKT4) offering support for projects aimed at addressing drug and alcohol addiction. The initiative will fund short, targeted collaborations between eligible research institutions and business partners.
Each project can receive a grant of up to ยฃ35,000 to support interventions that develop or evaluate innovation with potential impact on treatment, recovery, harm reduction or prevention for those affected by addiction.
The AXA Startup Angel Competition has been created to support entrepreneurs hoping to realise their business ambitions. The contest offers a variety of prizes to would-be businesses from across the UK to help them through the next phase of their startup journey.
There are six opportunities to win in 2025. Two winners will receive the top prize of ยฃ25,000 to fund their business idea. These winners will also be awarded mentoring from the AXA Startup Angels and business insurance for a year.
There are also four runners-up prizes featuring over ยฃ18,000 of media, mentoring and exposure. Each runner-up will receive a profile on their business in The Standard, mentoring with a member of The Standard team, plus VIP access to SME XPO 2026.
The Santander X UK Awards is Santander’s flagship entrepreneurship pitching competition. The competition has evolved to supporting 3 categories: university entrepreneurs, start-ups and a new SME category added for 2025.
Their aim is to award equity-free funding with prizes of between ยฃ10-30,000 and support for ambitious UK founders to take their ventures to the next level.
From now until August, 2 business owners a month will win ยฃ1,000 and mentoring from Adobe Express and Enterprise Nation.
All you have to do is share a creation you have made by using the templates in Adobe Express. It could be a social post, flyer or logo for your brand, upload it and complete the application for to be in with a chance of winning.
Future Leaders Fellowship (FLF) support talented people in universities, businesses, and other research and innovation environments.
They also allow universities, research institutes, independent research organisations and businesses to develop their most talented early career researchers and innovators or to attract new people to their organisations.
The aim of this competition is to:
Support ambitious research and innovation to tackle difficult and novel challenges.
Support excellence in innovation, across interdisciplinary boundaries and sectors.
Develop, retain, and attract the next wave of research and innovation leaders.
Working with a host organisation a Future Leaders Fellow will receive at least four years of funding to pursue an ambitious programme of innovation.
Applications will open on 23 June 2025 and close on 5 November 2025 at 11am.
More information can be accessed at the IUK website.
RTO Catapult Grant Scheme – Innovate UK
Launched in April this is an easy to access, easy to administer grant from Innovate UK for ยฃ15,000. Apply quickly as the pot ran out by September last year when launched at a similar time. Could be used for product testing, development work or if you need technical expertise to facilitate feasibility.
The fund offers financial support to UK-based independent studios developing commercial games-for-entertainment. Backed by the UK Government, the initiative aims to help companies scale up, attract investment and generate employment in the creative industries.
Grants will range from ยฃ50,000 to ยฃ150,000. The funding can be used to cover staff and contractor costs directly involved in hands-on development activity.
The scheme targets established games studios operating in the UK. Applicants must be able to demonstrate how the funding would provide clear additionality to their business growth plans and facilitate further investment.
Closing date: expressions of interest can be made at any time
Homes England and Octopus Real Estate have launched the second phase of the Greener Homes Alliance, providing discounted development finance to small and medium-sized (SME) housebuilders. The initiative supports the construction of energy-efficient homes across England.
A total of ยฃ150 million is available. Loans range from ยฃ2 million to ยฃ20 million. Interest rate reductions of up to 2% are available for developers meeting environmental and social criteria. Eligible applicants include SME housebuilders and developers operating in England.
Closing date: Applications can be made at any time
Co-operative and Community Finance is offering loans of between ยฃ10,000 and ยฃ85,000 for new or existing co-operatives across the UK to assist with the expansion, setup, or development of a co-operative enterprise. โฏ
Loans will only be made to economically viable enterprises that are democratically owned and controlled organisations registered in the UK.
Closing date: Applications can be made at any time
Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) Grants
The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme provides grants to farmers and land managers in the Surrey Hills for one-off projects to make improvements to the natural environment, climate change mitigation, cultural heritage and public access on their land.
The Workplace Charging Scheme provides support for organisations towards the cost of installing up to 40 electric vehicle chargepoint sockets at their sites.
The scheme covers up to 75% of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints (including VAT), capped at a maximum of:
ยฃ350 per socket
40 sockets across all sites per applicant โ for instance, if you want to install them at 40 sites, you will have 1 socket available per site
If there isn’t anything in this month’s roundup that suits your business’s specific needs, check out our Support Directory, or contact our team of experts via ourย Business Support Form.
Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on funding, business news, events and support for all Surrey businesses.
Surrey Economic Growth Fund round one update
Published 12 June 2025
Business news, Funding and grants
The Surrey Economic Growth Fund round one has now closed – with hundreds of businesses and organisations expressing interest in funding for innovative ideas to drive growth in Surrey.
The Surrey Economic Growth Fund is overseen by Surrey County Council. It will see millions of pounds invested to drive growth, creating jobs, improving infrastructure, increasing productivity and upskilling our workforce.
This single pot is made up of a range of public and investment streams, such as UK Shared Prosperity Funding from government.
The idea is to make it as simple and easy-as-possible for those looking to drive growth to apply for funding.
Round one launched in April 2025, and closed at the end of May. Other rounds are expected to follow.
Up to ยฃ7 million is available in round one, and we’ve received more than 300 expressions of interest totalling nearly ยฃ35 million of funding.
What happens next?
We want to say a big thank you to everyone who submitted an expression of interest in round one of the Surrey Economic Growth Fund.
Due to the high volume and quality of initial submissions, not every application will be funded.
Those who have expressed interest will receive a unique online link in the coming days. This will have an invitation to submit further information to support their application. The deadline is the end of June.
Our Investment Panel will meet throughout July to review full applications and make funding decisions.
A320 improvements underway to unlock housing and growth in Surrey
Published 11 June 2025
Business news
A320 improvements are underway between Ottersham and Chertsey, running until 2026. The ยฃ41.8 million project overseen by Surrey County Council will increase capacity on this busy stretch north of Woking. This will unlock new housing and support economic growth in the region.
The A320 improvements is a partnership between Surrey County Council, Runnymede Borough Council and Homes England, which is funding the work.
Runnymede needs to deliver 500 homes every year until 2030 to meet demand. And the A320, as the key link road between the M25 and communities including Woking, Ottershaw and Chertsey, is able to cope with increased numbers of vehicles.
So improvements to the road – including new cycling and pedestrian routes – will support development in the area. It will also improve access to St Peter’s Hospital.
A320 and unlocking local growth
The works will ensure there is extra capacity on the busy stretch of road between Chertsey and Ottershaw to support delivery of the Runnymede 2030 local plan.
It will make sure all the junctions and roads work well together to improve traffic flow. There will also be improvements for walkers and cyclists, including new crossing points and wider foot and cycle paths, and improved access to public transport.
The Runnymede 2030 Local Plan is a blueprint to guide development in the area. It was approved in 2020.
The plan commits to delivering 7,507 high quality additional homes in Runnymede in the period 2015-2030, an average of 500 homes a year.
There is also a commitment to ensuring a mix of employment, retail, leisure, community uses and activities and infrastructure. Plus, protection for the environment and improving accessibility to a range of sustainable and active travel choices.
Of the sites allocated for housing, a large number are reliant on the A320 improvements.
This includes a new Longcross Garden Village, a sustainable settlement of at least 1,700 residential units. And a further 400 homes on St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey.
What will the A320 improvements deliver?
There will be roadworks on the A320 between Chertsey and Ottershaw from early 2025 until 2026.
Works include:
Improvements to traffic lane facilities and full signalisation of St Peters Roundabout
Provision of an additional, third traffic lane eastbound on St Peters Way East
Provision of a new and improved Ottershaw roundabout with greater circulatory capacity with widened approaches and exits providing additional traffic lanes
Improvements to the M25 junction 11 interchange, including full circulatory signalisation and widened northbound and southbound exit slip roads with new dedicated left turn lanes
Provision of a new roundabout at the Holloway Hill/ Green Lane junction, with flood reduction initiatives, including the construction of attenuation ponds and shallow swales
Provision of shared use footway/cycleways where possible
Improvements to Guildford Road, near Salesian School, include installation of a dedicated drop-off layby / bus bays on the east side of Guildford Road along the front of the school
Improved lighting for all road users and provision of safe crossing facilities for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the whole scheme
Contractors started phase one of the A320 improvements in April 2025.
The initial ten week phase will see lane closures on St Peter’s Way between the St Peter’s Way roundabout and the M25 junction 11 roundabout. A westbound lane closure is also in place on St Peter’s Way.
Works will include:
an extra lane constructed from the St Peter’s Way roundabout towards the M25 on the A320 eastbound
widening of the approach onto the St Peter’s Way roundabout from the M25 on the A320 westbound
widening of the northbound approach onto the St Peter’s Way roundabout from Guildford Road
widening of the footpath from the St Peter’s Way roundabout towards St Peter’s Hospital
resurfacing of the entire St Peter’s Way roundabout
The A320โฏGuildford Road will be closing in both directions, between the Ottershaw and St Peterโs Way roundabouts from 5am on Saturday 14 June to 5am Monday 16 June. The closures are needed to divert the underground services that lie beneath Guildford Road.
The next phase of works in the autumn will see works commence at the Green Lane / Holloway Hill junction.
Surrey Business Awards 2025 now open for nominations
Published 4 June 2025
Business news, Events and awards
The Surrey Business Awards 2025 is back. This annual event, in association with Surrey Chambers of Commerce, is the largest and most prestigious business event in the county. Entries are now being welcomed with all Surrey businesses invited to apply.
Each year, this highly anticipated annual event celebrates the incredible achievements and contributions of businesses and individuals across Surrey. The calibre of entries is consistently outstanding, both in volume and in the exceptional quality of the submissions.
With a wide range of categories, this yearโs event offers something for every business – regardless of size or industry. Whether you’re a startup or an established leader, there’s a category for you.
Business Surrey is a sponsor of the event once again, overseeing the Best New Business Award.
Donโt miss the chance to showcase your business and join the ranks of Surreyโs most successful and innovative companies. Enter today for the opportunity to be recognised as one of the regionโs top performers.
Business Surrey, as part of Surrey County Council, is a proud sponsor of the Surrey Business Awards 2025.
We’re sponsoring the Best New Business Award. This award recognises a business with entrepreneurial aptitude, vision, ambition, drive and commercial acumen to build a successful enterprise from start-up.
It is open to any business with an office based in Surrey.ย The business must haveย started to trade no earlier thanย April 2022 and no later thanย September 2024.
Winning an award is not just about how great your business is. Itโs about how effectively you can present your case to the judges.
Creating a winning entry takes time, careful consideration and the ability to get straight to the point. You will also need to back up your claims with evidence.
Not sure where to start? Here are some helpful tips to ensure your entry for the Surrey Business Awards 2025 stands out.
Give yourself enough time. Judges can easily tell who has invested time in preparing a thoughtful submission and who hasnโt!
Stay on point. Ensure your answers directly address the questions and stay focused on the topic.
Donโt skip questions. It may seem obvious, but many people skip questions. Leaving questions unanswered or lacking detail will cost you points with the judges.
Stick to the 1,500-word limit. Be conciseโremember, you have limited space to grab the judges’ attention. (Thatโs 1,500 words for the entire submission.)
Quantify your results. Always provide facts and figures. Winning entries back up their claims with solid proof.
Get your staff and colleagues involved. Gather evidence, metrics, examples, testimonials – anything that strengthens your application.
Add the finishing touch. Include achievements or activities like community involvement, staff training and health and wellbeing initiatives.
Choose your best writer. Tell a compelling story. Ensure your submission is free of spelling errors and grammar mistakes and avoid overuse of exclamation marks, fluff, or marketing jargon.
Mark the deadline – July 9th 2025 – in your calendar. This might sound obvious but set reminders and avoid leaving it until the last minute.
Looking for further advice?
Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing expert support and advice to all businesses in Surrey. Our aim is to help you start, grow and thrive.
