A Leeds MP heard how the University of Leeds is playing a crucial role in driving regional economic growth.
Mark Sewards, MP for Leeds South West and Morley, visited the University's innovation hub, Nexus, to discuss growth opportunities at a round table with civic partners.
Mr Sewards said: "Visiting Nexus was a brilliant reminder of the talent, ambition and potential we have here in Leeds.
"It was inspiring to see start-ups, university researchers and industry professionals working side-by-side to drive growth and innovation.
"As a University of Leeds alumnus, I'm so proud to see our university supporting regional development, something I care deeply about as both a Leeds MP and the Chair of the APPG (All-Party Parliamentary Group) for Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire.
"Nexus is a real asset to our city and a powerful example of how creativity and partnership can shape Yorkshire's future and I will take those lessons back to Parliament as my APPG campaigns for stronger growth in our region."
Our world-leading research, dedicated entrepreneur programmes and support for businesses help to inspire them to grow and succeed with lasting impact for the region.
During the round table, discussions focused on the role of the University in the development of the innovation ecosystem.
Professor Nick Plant, Pro-Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation at the University of Leeds, said: "We are committed to driving regional growth by connecting start-ups and businesses with our researchers, partners and investors. Through the University and Nexus, we foster a collaborative ecosystem that enables innovation, supports business growth and strengthens the regional economy.
"We are grateful to Mark Sewards for visiting and hearing from our innovative businesses based here at Nexus, who are at the forefront of driving innovation, investment and jobs in the region.
"Our world-leading research, dedicated entrepreneur programmes and support for businesses help to inspire them to grow and succeed with lasting impact for the region."
During the visit, Mr Sewards visited businesses based in Nexus to hear about new innovations. At Edge Analytics, a spinout company from the University of Leeds, the MP heard how the business is delivering demographic modelling, which uses data to forecast how populations change.
The company uses advanced analytics and predictive forecasting to help organisations make informed, future-focused decisions.
Andrew Fowler, Commercial Director at Edge Analytics and a University of Leeds alum who graduated with a Masters degree in Geographic Information Science for Business Planning, said: "It was a pleasure to meet Mark and it was fantastic to see his interest in the type of projects we carry out at Edge Analytics."
Mr Sewards also visited another University of Leeds spinout company, SatSense, which provides precise ground movement monitoring using satellite borne radar (InSAR). The system helps organisations assess risk, protect infrastructure and make informed decisions across sectors including transport, utilities and property.
Gareth Scargill, Director of Nexus, said: "At Nexus, it is these kinds of opportunities that highlight the value of getting our member businesses in front of the government, who can help to make policy decisions."
