Skip to main contentEnter

Suffolk innovation hub secures £110,000 to boost diversity in local tech sector

News

Innovation Labs Group (iLabs) has been awarded a £110,000 grant to scale support for digital tech startups in Suffolk, focusing on increasing diversity in the sector.

Why it matters: The funding aims to create more opportunities for Suffolk-based founders, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds or underrepresented groups who may be more likely to struggle to launch their ventures.

The big picture: The grant, part of the Ecosystem Partnership Programme, seeks to address the lack of startup incubators in the East of England and promote a more inclusive tech ecosystem.

Key details:

  • The funding will support 'The Future' project, developing stronger connections between experienced entrepreneurs and the next generation of diverse regional startups

  • iLabs plans to identify, engage, and support early-stage startups from underrepresented groups

  • Since 2019, iLabs has supported several emerging Suffolk businesses, including Queue Pay, Guided Innovation, and West View IT

What they're saying:

  • Peter Basford, iLabs founder: "The latest funding is a huge vote of confidence in Innovation Labs and its mission to create an environment that allows more Suffolk-based founders to start businesses that grow and thrive in this region."

  • Amanda Allan, Barclays Eagle Labs Director: "We are proud to be able to support such projects, which are designed to help early-stage tech entrepreneurs."

By the numbers:

  • iLabs has five locations across Suffolk and Norfolk, plus one in Kuala Lumpur

  • The innovation hub was founded in 2019 by Peter Brady, Peter Basford, and Hermione Way

The bottom line: This investment provides an opportunity to boost diversity in Suffolk's tech startup scene, creating more jobs and attracting a wider range of talent to the area.

How to apply: Contact iLabs to learn more and discuss your eligibility.

Police reveal Billy McNicholl died from head injuries and a single stab wound in an 'isolated' attack

News

A post-mortem has revealed that William "Billy" McNicholl, 63, died from head injuries and a single stab wound at his Ipswich home. Police continue to appeal for witnesses as the murder investigation enters its second week.

The details: Officers discovered McNicholl's body at his home on Hawthorn Drive shortly before 18:00 on New Years Day:

  • Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team is leading the inquiry

  • A police cordon remains in place near the junction with Marigold Avenue

  • Investigators are particularly interested in any suspicious activity between 24 December and 1 January

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl, 63, died from head injuries and a single stab wound at his Ipswich homeAmy Clarke

What they're saying: Detective Superintendent Mike Brown of the Joint Major Investigations Team said: “We continue to appeal for anyone with any information to come forward while the murder inquiry into the death of Billy continues.

“Billy’s family are being supported by specially trained officers through what is an extremely distressing time for them.

“A large number of officers and staff have already been involved in the investigation, with searches, house-to-house and CCTV enquiries taking place. Residents should expect to see a continued increased police presence over the coming days.

“We are exploring all and any lines of enquiry and currently believe this to be an isolated incident and I would urge anyone with any information, no matter how small you think it may be, to get in touch with police.”

How to help:

  • Contact police on 101 quoting reference 37/162/25

  • Submit information via the Major Incident Public Reporting Portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/363719P01-PO1

  • Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

  • Use Crimestoppers' online form at crimestoppers-uk.org

The bottom line: While police believe this is an isolated incident, they are conducting extensive searches, house-to-house inquiries and CCTV analysis. Residents should expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days.

Load next article