University Centre Shrewsbury (UCS) is pleased to announce that its Centre for Research into Environmental Science and Technology (CREST) has received a second round of funding for £1.1 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The funding will allow CREST to continue to focus on innovation and R&D support for environmental science-based SMEs in the Marches, with the aim of addressing the area’s productivity challenges and increasing employment during the post-COVID economic recovery.
“This funding is a vote of confidence in the strategic work that CREST has undertaken over the past three years,” said Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice Chancellor of the University of Chester. “It is also an investment into the future of Shropshire. I applaud CREST’s efforts to date and look forward to what is ahead for the team.”
CREST, which is a partnership between University Centre Shrewsbury and University Centre Reaseheath, was created to develop and increase the productivity of environmental science and technology businesses in the area. CREST works with SMEs and start-ups in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin by providing research and specialist advice, helping SMEs to develop innovative ideas and products before bringing them to market.
“Our region has the potential to establish itself as a leader in low carbon and environmental technology,” said Professor Julianna Powell-Turner, Academic Research Director and Head of CREST. “CREST will play an instrumental role in building the sector in our region by providing technical and academic support, research and advice to local businesses.”
