Barclays has announced the opening of a new Innovation Hub in London, developed in collaboration with several key players in the technology sector, including Microsoft and NVIDIA.
The Hub, part of Barclays’ Eagle Labs network, will focus on supporting early-stage businesses in the fields of AI, deep tech, and broader innovation.
It aims to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts to foster growth within the UK’s tech sector.
Located in Shoreditch, the Hub will provide workspace for up to 150 businesses, and will offer access to events, workshops, and business development programmes.
Companies based at the Hub will also have the opportunity to connect with organisations involved in its development, such as Microsoft, NVIDIA, Conception X, Databricks, Innovate Finance, and Twin Path Ventures.
Barclays’ innovation banking team will also be based on-site, offering guidance and support to founders.
The partners will help shape the ongoing development of the space, with plans to meet regularly to assess how best to support the businesses that use it.
Hannah Bernard, Head of Business Banking at Barclays, said:
“Key players from across the industry need to come together to help nurture and develop the next wave of tech entrepreneurs, this new Innovation Hub will play an important role in facilitating that as part of our wider offering to tech businesses. Our innovation banking specialists will be on hand to provide tailored support to founders, helping them raise capital, develop business skills and accelerate their growth.”
Ali Wright, SMB Director at Microsoft UK, added:
“The UK has a rich entrepreneurial history, and the Barclays Innovation Hub will form a critical focal point for the next wave of innovators looking to bring their ideas to life with the power of AI. Microsoft is delighted to be a launch partner, and we look forward to providing expertise and access to services that will help aspiring organisations fulfil their potential and fuel growth across the UK economy.”
The launch of the new Hub builds on Barclays’ existing support for UK entrepreneurs through its Eagle Labs initiative, which operates in 43 locations across the country and has supported over 17,000 businesses since its inception.
Featured image credit: Barclays
