Starting an Industry Cluster or Innovation Hub: Consultancy Services - The Big Bang Partnership

Starting an Industry Cluster or Innovation Hub: Consultancy Services

Business people at an industry cluster event

Deliver Real Outcomes

We help you set up and grow industry clusters and innovation hubs that deliver real outcomes. Whether you’re starting with a blank page or building on existing momentum, we provide the structure, support and insight to make it work.

We don’t just advise, we work alongside you to create something that’s practical, focused, and able to stand the test of time.

Who We Work With

  • Local authorities and combined authorities investing in innovation infrastructure
  • Economic development bodies and LEPs
  • Universities and research institutes seeking stronger industry connections
  • Businesses looking to co-locate, collaborate or lead innovation in their sector
  • Business networks, industry associations and anchor institutions with a shared goal

What We Offer

Feasibility and Scoping

We start by helping you understand what’s possible. We assess demand, map stakeholders, and review existing assets. This phase gives you a clear case for action—or a reason to pause.

Strategy and Positioning

Once the case is clear, we help you shape the offer: who it’s for, what it delivers, and how it’s different. We work with you to define the cluster or hub’s purpose, value, and position in the market.

Business Models and Governance

You’ll need a structure that works—from governance to funding. We help design practical models that bring partners together, support operations, and allow for sustainable growth.

Stakeholder Engagement

Clusters and hubs thrive on strong relationships. We engage businesses, researchers, policymakers and support providers in shaping the vision and building commitment. For businesses, this means creating real opportunities to lead and benefit from the hub from day one.

Programme and Space Design

Whether you’re planning a physical space or virtual platform, we help shape the offer. This includes workspace, events, accelerators, talent programmes or testbed facilities—whatever meets your goals and local need.

Launch and Early Delivery

We support your team through the early stages of delivery—from recruitment and activation to marketing and operations. Our goal is to help you get momentum quickly, while building solid foundations.

Why It Works

  • We bring practical experience from clusters and hubs across the UK and beyond
  • We focus on what will make a difference to your users and partners
  • We help balance ambition with what’s deliverable
  • We keep things grounded and avoid overcomplication

Outcomes

  • A clear case for the cluster or hub, backed by evidence
  • A strong, distinctive proposition that people want to be part of
  • Real business involvement from the start
  • Sustainable models for delivery and growth
  • A platform for innovation, collaboration and investment

Let’s Talk

If you’re looking to start or scale an industry cluster or innovation hub, we’d love to help. Get in touch to discuss your goals and how we can support you.