Birmingham Innovation Precinct
A bold vision for inclusive innovation.
Introducing the Birmingham Innovation Precinct
In our ongoing pursuit of excellence and transformation, Aston’s strategic presence and role within the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter (BKQ) has evolved into the Birmingham Innovation Precinct (BIP) – formerly known under the working title of Birmingham Innovation Quarter. This new name encapsulates our unique contribution to a dynamic hub of knowledge, research and enterprise and marks a bold step forward in our commitment to driving innovation, collaboration and commercial growth. This naming approach is well aligned and connected with the global ‘innovation precinct’ movement.
Transforming a 20-hectare vision into a reality
The Birmingham Innovation Precinct is set to transform a 20-hectare area adjacent to Aston University into a vibrant urban innovation ecosystem that nurtures groundbreaking ideas and fosters enterprise. The development plan includes:
- 1.35 million square feet of commercial and innovation space
- 2,200 homes (with 15% designated as affordable housing)
- 400 hotel rooms equipped with state-of-the-art conference facilities
- 15 hectares of public realm and open space
- 500,000 square feet of cultural and community space
This visionary project is designed to create approximately 10,000 high-value jobs across key sectors, contributing over £1.3 billion annually in Gross Value Added (GVA) to our economy.
Key initiatives powering the precinct
At the heart of the Birmingham Innovation Precinct (BIP) are transformative initiatives that reflect Aston University’s commitment to place-based innovation and placemaking in line with our 2030 strategy:
- Woodcock Street facility acquisition: We have secured a 220,000 sq ft facility that will become home to the triple-crown accredited Aston Business School, Green Energy Centre, Aston Business Hub and Aston Integrated Healthcare Hub.
- Green Energy Centre: Will drive sustainable energy solutions, positioning the entire precinct on the path to net zero emissions.
- Aston Integrated Healthcare Hub: This innovative hub represents a new model for community healthcare and community pharmacy, offering preventative health and wellbeing services while showcasing digital healthcare advancements.
- Aston Business Hub: Designed to ignite entrepreneurial spirit, this hub will provide a vibrant home for 100 tech startups and innovative businesses. With state-of-the-art facilities, collaborative workspaces, and access to academic expertise, mentoring and investment, the Business Hub will transform creative ideas into thriving enterprises.
A catalyst for socioeconomic impact
These initiatives are not just standalone projects – they are a testament to Aston University’s dedication to driving measurable socioeconomic impact across Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond. Our strategic positions as the Birmingham node of the West Midlands Investment Zone further unlocks unique opportunities for future funding and development, empowering us to reinforce our contributions to both the university and the wider community.
Brochures
Find more information about the Birmingham Innovation Precinct and the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter in the brochures below.
View the Birmingham Innovation Precinct brochure [PDF, 7.4MB]
View the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter brochure [PDF, 5.7MB]
The impact of Birmingham Innovation Precinct
The Aston 2030 Strategy sets out the projected impact of the Birmingham Innovation Precinct, acting as a catalyst to achieve the impact set out in the Aston Enterprise Strategy, including:
- Midlands Mindforge raising £250M and Aston spinouts receiving >£30M investment.
- 50 spinouts (with at least one achieving a valuation >£100M).
- Average seed investment to spinouts >£2.5M.
- 100 graduate start-ups incubated.
- Hosting at least two globally recognised accelerators.
- Sector-leading portfolio of 50 KTP projects.
- Achievement of Aston’s economic impact reaching £2.37bn GVA by 2030.
BIP’s strategic position within the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter node of the West Midlands Investment Zone further unlocks unique opportunities for future funding, development and impact.
