Just to the west of London, on the site of the old EMI vinyl record factory, lies a unique facility that is bringing the spirit of innovation to life.
The Central Research Laboratory (CRL) in Hayes is the UK’s first purpose-built hardware accelerator and coworking space – where the brightest startups come together under one roof to design, build, collaborate and create.
While EMI’s scientists and engineers at the location once helped develop audio systems such as stereo sound, the CRL cohort focuses on a remarkably diverse range of technologies – from next-generation agricultural field robots to new sustainable building materials made from potato waste.
For each of these early-stage companies, acceptance on to CRL’s accelerator means they benefit from an intensive, six-month programme of hands-on support. This process includes assistance in taking a product idea and turning it into a viable business, guidance on funding and achieving scalable growth...