MP explores innovation and community support in White City

Dr Rupa Huq MP recently joined Imperial College London colleagues across White City for a wide-ranging tour of White City Deep Tech Campus.

Hosted by Imperial’s Tom Bailey, Strategy Director (Innovation Ecosystem), the MP for Ealing Central and Acton explored how Imperial is supporting early-stage deep tech startups through Imperial Incubator at Scale Space – offering invaluable access to flexible wet labs, office space, and prototyping facilities to help emerging innovators tackle major global challenges in health and climate.

The MP also saw first-hand how Imperial is engaging with local communities via The Invention Rooms and Dangoor Reach Out Makerspace, where young people can build confidence and develop crucial STEM skills through access to 3D printers, laser cutters, scanners and other state-of-the-art equipment.

Further community initiatives highlighted during the tour included What the Tech?! – a key digital literacy programme founded by Imperial students to support elderly local residents with electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops – and Agents of Change, a pioneering community leadership network supporting women living and working in White City to drive social change. This popular programme supports female leaders of all ages, sectors and backgrounds to develop solutions to local challenges through facilitated networking events, workshops, and seminars.

The Imperial team also had the opportunity to share an update wiht Dr Huq on the exciting forward plans for WestTech London – an ambitious and inclusive initiative to create jobs, attract investment, and position London as a global leader in science and technology. Anchored by Imperial’s assets in South Kensington, Paddington Life Sciences, White City Innovation District and Old Oak & Park Royal, WestTech London is shaping the future of UK innovation.

Clockwise: 1) Vicky Brightman-Hahn, Director of Public Engagement, shares an overview of community programmes at The Invention Rooms in White City.
2). Tom Bailey shares Imperial’s ambitious plans for WestTech London.
3). Stakeholder Engagement Manager Katy Ingleby and Strategy Director (Innovation Ecosystem) Tom Bailey showcase the facilities at Imperial Incubator to support early-stage deep tech companies.
4). Farial Missi, Senior Partnerships and Community Engagement Manager, highlighting local initiatives for personal and professional development.
5). Dr Rupa Huq MP pictured in the Dangoor Reach Out Makerspace, exploring the work of science projects made by local young people.

Photos and graphics subject to third party copyright used with permission or © Imperial College London.