Converted shipping containers at Boxworks Brabazon in Bristol.

In Press by Forward Space

Startup at Boxworks 2024

MAY 2024. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE.

Forward teams up with YTL Developments and Aerospace Bristol for ‘Startup at Boxworks’

  • Win a 3-month tenancy at Boxworks in its new home at Brabazon, Bristol
  • The spaces or ‘Boxes’ are ideal for teams of up to 6
  • Boxes include superfast fibre and use of Aerospace Bristol facilities
  • Entries are open now. Closing date is Friday 31st May.

To celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of Bristol’s creative community, Forward has teamed up with YTL Developments and Aerospace Bristol to launch Startup at Boxworks 2024.

Now in its second year, the competition gives entrants the chance to win 3-months of office space at Boxworks, completely free of charge. Aimed squarely at new businesses, startups and freelancers, the competition will provide much-needed support for the early stages of a business by giving a fledgling enterprise the space to grow and explore ideas, without the pressure of workspace costs. 

Boxworks is made up of 20 shipping containers that have been reimagined into modern workspaces. Originally housed next to Temple Meads train station, the units are now proudly part of Bristol’s thriving new neighbourhood at Brabazon. The studios, or ‘Boxes’, are super-insulated, come with superfast fibre and access to everything needed for a productive working environment, including facilities at the nearby Aerospace Bristol museum.

The competition is open to all businesses with a turnover of £150k or less. To apply, entrants simply need to outline why office space would help take their business to the next level by submitting either a written statement, a presentation or a short video. Full entry criteria can be found at boxworks.co.uk/startup. Deadline for submissions is midnight, Friday 31st May 2024.

The competition will be judged by Gavin Eddy (CEO, Forward), Seb Loyn (Director of Planning & Development, YTL Developments) and Sally Cordwell (CEO Aerospace Bristol).

Gavin Eddy, CEO of Forward, said:

“Boxworks is a great workspace that really lends itself to startup businesses. The studios are the ideal blank canvas and are a great space for ideas to grow. 

Our winners last year – Loopin and Husebox – were two very different companies, in different stages of their journey, but they both brought new and exciting ideas. I’m very excited to see what this year’s entrants bring to the table.”

Seb Loyn, Director of Planning & Development, YTL Developments said:

I’m looking for entries that embody innovation, sustainability, and a pioneering spirit that will help shape the future of Bristol. I’m seeking unique ideas that push boundaries while fostering community impact—a beacon of inspiration for a better tomorrow.

Sally Cordwell, CEO, Aerospace Bristol, said: 

“I’m looking for entries that are unique, outside the box and will provide a genuine positive impact on the community. This is a fantastic opportunity for small businesses and I can’t wait to see the entrants.”

ENDS

For press enquiries, please contact: James Borley – james@forwardspace.co.uk / 07805 228682. High res images are available on request.

About Forward 

Forward creates workspaces for ambitious start-ups, visionary entrepreneurs and successful small businesses.

Since 2007 they have been at the forefront of change in how and where we work. They create inspirational, design-led workspaces in regional towns and cities across the South West and build them to include shared coworking areas, dedicated desks and private offices. To make sure you don’t spend all your time at your desk, they wrap them around a hub consisting of a cafe, lounge, gardens, event spaces and meeting rooms.

Forward currently has coworking buildings in Frome, Bristol and Taunton, with new sites in Devon and Cornwall coming soon. 

www.forwardspace.co.uk @forwardspace 

About YTL Developments

YTL Developments is a team of adventurous placemakers, creating exceptional developments where many generations can thrive. Our Pioneering Spirit unites us to enrich people’s lives by creating tomorrow’s communities. Read more information on our projects at www.ytldevelopments.co.uk

Alongside Brabazon, the YTL Group’s UK portfolio includes some of the country’s most innovative luxury hotels such as The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Edinburgh’s The Glasshouse and Berkshire’s Monkey Island Estate.

For more information, please visit www.ytldevelopments.co.uk

About Aerospace Bristol

Aerospace Bristol is a museum documenting Bristol’s captivating aviation history. Based in Filton in the North of Bristol, the museum is home to Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last Concorde ever to fly. 

Visitors can discover a variety of exhibits, ranging from the earliest days of British aviation to the cutting-edge advancements in aerospace technology.

Education and learning is at the heart of its mission. Developed with industry partners, it delivers an inspiring and practical learning programme encouraging school pupils to develop STEM skills and discover the possibilities of exciting future careers in science and engineering.

Aerospace Bristol is a museum run by the independent charity, Bristol Aero Collection Trust.https://aerospacebristol.org/