A place to grow

Finding a work environment that’s inspiring, functional and rewarding can be tough. In Cornwall, it’s not.

If the past year has taught us anything, it’s the importance of a work life balance. With a record number of new businesses founded in, and expanding into, Cornwall in the last year, the region is becoming increasingly attractive to a vast range of companies, for a variety of reasons. Some are looking to Cornwall to expand their business because they’re seeking a different way of working, others are already here and recognise the myriad of benefits the Duchy offers. Either way, this is excellent news for both Cornwall’s economy and job market.

Firstly, there is space for everyone. With a stunning array of modern, purpose-built workspaces, from historic seaside hotels transformed into contemporary offices, to eco-forward innovation centres focused on business collaboration, these workspaces are as diverse and characterful as the Cornish landscape itself. 

For those who require a dedicated workspace, the Enterprise Space for Advanced Manufacturing (ESAM) is the first phase of the new Carluddon Technology Park. Its offices and industrial workspaces are bespoke, sustainable and well-connected. Even the views are spectacular; set on the top of St Austell bay. Despite only opening recently, there’s already a host of innovators sharing the space. Most recently, promotional merchandising company Fluid Branding, whose clients include Google, Virgin, Sky and American Airlines, moved to ESAM to expand their eCommerce development and new systems infrastructure. 

Situated in Pool, Penryn and Truro, Cornwall’s three innovation centres are purpose-built for expanding businesses that value community and collaboration. The growing, dynamic companies that work here can access first-class office facilities and informal networking areas, cutting edge research, and the individually tailored business support they need to kickstart innovation. For skincare pioneers Made for Life Organics, sales have grown 200% since being based at the sustainably-built Truro location. 

When Crowdfunder and the Real Ideas Organisation (RIO) started C-Space back in 2018, they pledged to give firms in the region a creative, multifunctional co-working space to network, create and innovate – while celebrating Cornwall’s unique lifestyle. Just a stone’s throw from the spectacular beaches of Cornwall’s north coast, the £2 million renovation of a Newquay hotel includes everything from contemporary offices and a local produce café, to a state-of-the-art production studio. But it’s the wealth of expert business support available that really sets this workspace apart. With the two teams providing on-site expertise and guidance, it’s an ideal location for start-ups and established firms alike to bring radical new ideas to life.

If a more flexible approach suits, then Distrikt takes a sharp left turn away from the traditional office. The premise of this dynamic, ultra-flexible workspace is simple: pay per desk for however long you need. There’s no lock in fee, easy access to long-term rental and, importantly, superfast broadband. It’s built with a community of budding start-ups, entrepreneurs, freelancers and digital natives in mind. And with a lively, co-working environment providing a constant flow of new contacts, new opportunities and new ideas, inhabitants are thriving. 

Innovation doesn’t always happen easily – but when your work environment suits you perfectly, it’s a whole lot easier. And luckily, there’s no shortage of inspiration to be found in Cornwall. With all this and 704,000m2 of planned new workspace, whatever the size or shape of your business, you’re sure to find a workplace you love. 

Not only is Cornwall home to exciting new innovation spaces and co-working centres, businesses are also drawn in by the ecosystem of support that the region offers. With a thriving industry across a range of sectors, there is huge potential for funding and collaboration within this existing network. There are dedicated teams ready to help all manner of businesses settle into the region and maximise their capabilities by making the most of the existing infrastructure. Alongside the funding support in place, Cornwall’s business scene is driven by collaboration and community. There are incredible sector specific networks – like Software Cornwall, Tech South West, Cornwall Mining Alliance and Creative Kernow – that help people connect and grow. 

Cornwall also boasts the world’s biggest rural fibre broadband network. This hyper-connected foundation for business is another key pull factor for companies looking to expand into the European market. Recently Marwick Marketing, a full service agency covering everything from search engine optimisation to social media management and website design, chose Cornwall as the location to expand their presence – all the way from British Columbia – and establish a new UK-based office. Pulling in businesses such as this not only helps to raise Cornwall’s profile as a centre for business excellence but also creates exciting new career opportunities for all.

Every business journey is different, but with Cornwall Trade and Investment’s experience in supporting businesses from both inside and outside the UK, there has never been a better time to do business in Cornwall.

Discover more

What are you waiting for? 

Cornwall Trade and Investment exists to promote Cornwall as a unique, thriving business destination and drive the regionís continued success. If you want to find out more about what Cornwall can offer your business, get in touch with Cornwall Trade and Investment today. 

Did you know?

Cornwall Trade and Investment is funded by Cornwall Council and the European Regional Development Fund.

Did you know?

Dedicated property portfolio website www.choosecornwall.co.uk, managed by Cornwall Development Company, brings together the finest state-of-the-art offices and flexible work hubs allowing you to search a range of available sites and property.

Discover more

What are you waiting for? 

Cornwall Trade and Investment exists to promote Cornwall as a unique, thriving business destination and drive the region’s continued success. If you want to find out more about what Cornwall can offer your business, get in touch with Cornwall Trade and Investment today. 

Cornwall Trade and Investment

01872 326727

www.cornwallti.com