A new ‘soft-landing’ programme known as KQ Base is being launched to offer bespoke packages of financial support to attract overseas firms to the Liverpool Knowledge Quarter. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool’s £2bn knowledge quarter (KQ Liverpool) is to offer bespoke packages of financial support for overseas firms looking to set up or expand in the UK.
As part of the new ‘soft-landing’ programme known as KQ Base, companies from across the world will be offered cash and business support to set up home in the district located on the edge of Liverpool city centre.
It will aim to alleviate many relocation unknowns by providing businesses with a six month period of financial incentives when taking workspace within KQ Liverpool. Specific locations include Liverpool Science Park or Sensor City, There will also be a tailor-made support package including free business advice, professional guidance and local market insight.
Colin Sinclair, chief executive of KQ Liverpool, said: “Liverpool is a city of opportunity, empowered by its global connectivity, world-class knowledge assets and thriving innovation district.
“Taking advantage of the unrivalled business and financial support provided through KQ Base will enable businesses to scale at pace and immerse themselves in KQ Liverpool’s collaborative environment, alongside some of the world’s most influential players in science, health, technology, culture and education.”
The expert support will be delivered by nine leading financial, legal, marketing and skills providers including DLA Piper, Growth Platform, RSM, Western Union, Agent Academy, Agent Marketing, Downtown in Business, Active Profile and the Local Growth Hub.
These specialist KQ Base advisory partners will provide incoming businesses with a wide range of tailored support, including a dedicated account manager, recruitment support, free consultations and workshops, access to online resources and software, and promotional opportunities at local events.
KQ Liverpool is a 450-acre urban innovation district. It is home to some of the world’s most influential players in science, health, technology, education, music and the creative and performing arts. With more than £1bn of new developments underway – and a further £1bn in the pipeline – it is bringing forward new development opportunities and attracting new investment, increase the city’s employment figures and improve graduate attraction and retention rates.
The KQ Liverpool partners are the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool City Council, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, the Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Bruntwood SciTech.