How does a 40-year-old charity continue to shape the future of science and innovation in Oxford?
In this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager sits down with Steve Burgess, CEO, and Nicki Campling, Director of Innovation and Operations at the Oxford Trust, to explore the organisation's unique role in nurturing startups and inspiring future scientists. From pioneering the UK's first innovation centre to investing over £20 million in state-of-the-art facilities, the Trust has quietly built an ecosystem where early-stage companies can thrive.
Listeners will discover how the Trust's dual mission—supporting deep tech startups and delivering hands-on STEM education—creates a virtuous circle that benefits the entire region. The conversation touches on everything from lab space pivots and impact metrics to angel investing, patient capital, and how philanthropic roots enable long-term decision-making. It's a rare look at a sustainable, mission-led model that continues to adapt in a rapidly evolving innovation landscape.
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Nicki Campling: Director of Innovation and Operations at the Oxford Trust, Nicki oversees the Trust's innovation centres and STEM outreach, blending operational excellence with a passion for inclusive entrepreneurship.
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Susannah de Jager: Susannah is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in UK asset management. She has worked closely with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and government officials to shape the conversation around domestic scale-up capital.
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Oxford+ is hosted by Susannah de Jager and supported by Mishcon de Reya and Oxford North.
Produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.