The University of Strathclyde is playing a pivotal role in three out of six projects shortlisted for UK Government Investment Zone funding, potentially amounting to £160 million, in the Glasgow City Region. This funding is particularly directed at fostering advanced manufacturing initiatives and is anticipated to attract an additional £300 million in private investments, ultimately creating up to 10,000 jobs throughout the region. The shortlisted projects are in the process of developing business cases as they await final funding confirmations.
Strathclyde is at the forefront of Project PRISM (Platform for Scaling Responsive Space Systems Research, Innovation & Manufacturing), which is based in the Glasgow City Innovation District (GCID). This initiative aims to enhance the UK’s capabilities in the space sector, benefiting from partnerships with organizations like AAC Clyde Space and SaxaVord Spaceport. The project aims to establish new infrastructure that supports the entire development cycle of space technologies—from research and development to manufacturing and launch. Valued at £100 million, PRISM is set to increase the UK’s launch capabilities while fostering advancements in technology across all stages of readiness, focusing on security and resilience.
Another significant initiative led by Strathclyde is the Maritime Supply Chain Innovation project. This project seeks to develop a new Maritime Supply Chain Innovation Centre (MSCIC) in Old Kilpatrick, West Dunbartonshire, alongside necessary infrastructure improvements, such as a heavy-lift quay. This initiative represents a collaboration among Strathclyde, West Dunbartonshire Council, Malin Group, and other industry partners, and is projected to create over 750 long-term jobs and provide significant construction employment for more than 450 positions. Moreover, it expects to positively impact over 6,000 maritime-related jobs in the region.
Additionally, Strathclyde is spearheading the National Advanced Semiconductor Packaging and Integration Centre (NASPIC) through its National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS). This initiative is instrumental in advancing semiconductor manufacturing in sectors crucial to the UK’s electrification supply chain, with an anticipated revenue generation of £800 million and the creation of 300 jobs.
Professor Craig Clark, of Strathclyde, emphasized that Project PRISM represents a critical growth stage for Scotland’s space sector, enabling it to compete globally in the development of small satellites and their applications. Professor Sir Jim McDonald, the university’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the institution’s commitment to leading transformative projects, asserting that partnerships among industry, academia, and government can effectively accelerate innovation, stimulate economic growth, and create high-value employment within key sectors like space, maritime, and advanced manufacturing.
Overall, Strathclyde’s involvement in these projects reflects its dedication to fostering technological advancement and economic development within the Glasgow region and beyond.
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