The School of Business, Management and Economics is situated in a business environment with a distinctive buzz. The area is home to a cluster of innovative high growth companies, as well as established global operations. The number of dynamic and growing businesses across the region gives rise to an exciting entrepreneurial culture.
The University has links with a number of business organisations and initiatives in the South East:
Wired Sussex is perhaps one of the best showcases for the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that exists across the region. A support and networking group for digital media businesses in Brighton and Sussex, it has over 1,300 member companies. The University has recently partnered with Wired Sussex on a placements scheme for Sussex-based graduates, giving them the opportunity to experience work in Wired Sussex member companies.
The Gatwick Diamond initiative is a private/public sector partnership aimed at driving innovation and growth in the region centred on Gatwick airport. While the existence of the airport naturally draws businesses in the aerospace, logistics and travel industries, the Diamond is home to a broad spectrum of businesses, both by industry and size. Hi-tech manufacturing and biosciences are well represented, plus the area is a regional focus for many of the professional services firms.
Support for economic development and growth in Sussex is lead by South East England Development Agency (SEEDA). SEEDA funds South East Business Innovation and Growth which is a regional network of Innovation and Growth Teams that support businesses with the greatest potential to innovate, grow and launch internationally. The University of Sussex is playing a key part in this work through the involvement in the East Sussex and Brighton and Hove Innovation and Growth Team of the Sussex Innovation Centre and the University's Business and Enterprise team.
