Issue link: https://htpgraphics.uberflip.com/i/433487
The authors of the case studies used in this booklet, through the eyes of current entrepreneurs and business leaders, show the relationship between deeply rooted innovative conditions, such as experienced in Manchester, academic and other assets and a positive pro-business culture. The stories that they present of different organisations and companies suggest that although the unique 'Mancunian Milieu' for innovation might be emulated by others, it might be difficult to replicate it entirely as it is place and history dependent. We have included classic 'spin-outs' from the University as well as those which are independently founded start-ups, and larger companies which have developed strategic relationships with the University. We have also carried out interviews with people, such as the alumnus and the entrepreneur Imran Hakim, whose activities and opinions we believed could provide important insights for the study. We held interviews with over 20 selected entrepreneurs and business leaders and asked them to tell us the roots of their business, their links with the University and the specific factors which have either led to them locating in Manchester or have sustained their presence in the area over time. Through the eyes of entrepreneurs In Manchester, the University effectively operates as both an engine of entrepreneurial ideas and people; a generator of new understanding, knowledge and competencies and a vital node in the global network of knowledge, experts and market information... The history and culture of the University partly determines how it operates in this role. 8