Silicon Valley meets Thames Valley

Two award winning internationally recognised universities, plus sector leading teaching hospitals combine to secure Oxford’s position as an academic and medical centre of excellence with robust certainty. Research and innovation also hold a well established foothold in Oxford's historic output of ground breaking science.  

There is however a new and emerging sector of growth within the city. Technology 'start ups' are contributing an ever increasing percentage of local economy growth, in fact 25% of employment within the city now comes from the technology sector. Technology companies are generally quick to grow and are attracted to Oxford for ease of connectivity to London and Reading, the two biggest UK technology hubs. 

Many of the emerging firms stem from university talent and local expertise includes battery technology, satellite imaging, electric transport and solar cell technology. The inevitable parallel with Cambridge, where the growth curve in technology firms is already well established, must also be made. At home in Oxford the Universities and City Council are keen to encourage a similar growth with a range of incentives and initiatives for tech start up firms. Recruited technology talent are well paid and sourced internationally. In a fast moving and exciting field young talent will relocate willingly and often which generates obvious boosts for the local economy and rental markets. 

Oxford’s Science and Business Parks are both based on the Southern edge of the city, which has historically been industrial and therefore less desirable. The growth of technology firms across this region stands to boost the desirability of Southern city locations such as Temple Cowley, which coincidentally is also in line for a major £60 million shopping precinct redevelopment. Beautiful open English countryside is also within minutes reach and popular villages including Nuneham Courtenay, Garsington and Radley are just moments from the parks.

Oxford’s technology sector is shaping up to be a significant influencer in a dynamic and prosperous future for Oxford, and it is therefore a very welcome arrival.