SETsquared, the business incubation programme run by the Universities of Bristol, Bath, Exeter, Southampton and Surrey, has sealed a deal with UKTI which tailors services to the special requirements of pre or early revenue businesses who have high potential for growth.

Technology start-ups will be able to access the services via regular drop-in clinics at the Bristol SETsquared centre at Engine Shed. Members will receive one-to-one advice sessions from UKTI international trade advisors and support services in matters such as international business laws, exporting and international fund raising.

Nick Sturge, Director of Engine Shed - the University of Bristol’s SETsquared centre - said: “There are huge opportunities for UK companies, particularly those in the technology sector, to spread their wings overseas and this latest partnership will give local businesses the information and help they need to make the leap.

“We have been running this scheme very successfully for two years in Bristol now and it has been a great success. This new partnership will cement our relationship with UKTI not just in Bristol but at our other centres across the South.

“For small start-ups, the prospect of winning in international markets can be daunting but the success of our companies that have expanded overseas is proof of the rewards it can bring.”

As well as the one-to-one clinics, the new partnership will give SETsquared businesses access to UKTI events and programmes in the UK and abroad.

SETsquared’s business incubation programme is ranked the best in Europe and second in the world. Over the last decade it has developed more than 1,000 high tech start-ups, which have generated some £1bn in investment.