In addition to traditional co-working, the Greenhouse at Republic has been growing a new crop of entrepreneurs. A dynamic partnership between Republic, the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) and The Trampery has been set up by Trilogy - to cultivate innovation.

The partnership provides free desk space, training and advice to students and community entrepreneurs - who want to turn a great idea into a sustainable business. It has also catalysed a range of additional support – all focussed at bringing about positive change locally: 

• A £60,000 gift from The Education Group has been ringfenced for start-up funding to the most promising business ventures that emerge from the UWS community.

• The Royal Society has funded an Entrepreneur in Residence, Salman Malik, who will build connections and support the emerging businesses to grow.

• Republic’s Social Value and Partnerships Manager, Anne-Marie has focussed on attracting local talent. Her outreach work has brought members of the Tower Hamlets community into the Greenhouse: Well One by Fatima Fardus runs wellbeing sessions local residents; Piarvé Wetshi has started a sustainable fashion business and Sandy Abdelrahman has set up an artivist charity called Skaped.

The Greenhouse has just passed its first year – and we at Trilogy can’t wait to see what will emerge from it in 2023!