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Connect Scotland rises from the ashes

Hi-Tech Scotland reporter | Thursday August 07, 2008



Business support network Connect Scotland has been sent a lifeline within a month after it ceased trading due to a funding shortfall.
Glasgow Opportunities (GO Group) in partnership with Connect Midlands and Connect Yorkshire, has been successful in acquiring the assets of Connect Scotland and plans to form a new Connect UK network.
Commenting on the move Enterprise Minister Jim Mather welcomed the development. He said: “I welcome the prospect of a well-networked and reinvigorated Connect Scotland playing an important part in developing new and innovative firms in Scotland and helping to deliver increased sustainable economic growth. I am certain that Connect’s activities will complement the comprehensive range of innovation and investment support.”
GO Group Chief Executive Isabell Majewsky, said: “It was the primary goal of GO Group and our partners to protect the Connect Scotland brand and we’ve done just that. Our focus now is to develop a programme of support to technology companies and help them to realise their true growth potential. We’ll do this by taking stock, restructuring necessary aspects, introducing new services and creating a new, stronger Connect Scotland for a lasting future.”
According to Majewsky, the new Connect Scotland will be resurrected within six to eight months for the benefit of technology start-ups across the country. However, she admits that changes must be made to the existing programme offered by Connect Scotland.
She said: “The market has changed and therefore Connect Scotland as an entity going forward, must change too. GO Group knows that we must develop this asset in order to provide lasting support. By joining with Connect Midlands and Connect Yorkshire we hope to create a potent synergy that will both flourish in Scotland and beyond.
Although Connect’s activities have ceased temporarily, Majewsky emphasises that there are other inspirational initiatives in place to support innovation. In particular, the national John Logie Baird Awards Programme which has been launched this year.
As part of the acquisition by GO Group, existing partners and supporters of Connect Scotland will be encouraged to continue their involvement. A consultation period is due to begin with interested parties who have previously supported and contributed to Connect Scotland over the years.
Majewsky said: “GO Group truly value these relationships and look forward to working with active supporters in resurrecting Connect Scotland.”
John Griffiths, Director of Connect Midlands, said: “We’re delighted, along with Connect Yorkshire, to support GO Group in the revival of Connect Scotland. I know that together, through the Connect UK network, we can offer a strong and varied programme of support for high-growth businesses seeking investment.”

www.go.uk.com

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