Catapult centre to propel UK businesses into the digital age

The government has launched the Connected Digital Economy Catapult (CDEC) centre to enable UK businesses to benefit from the continuing advancement of technology in order to bring new products to the marketplace.

The launch is part of the government's £200m investment in a network of Catapult centres across a number of sectors.

The CDEC centre will research the impact that new technologies such as augmented reality and cloud computing will have on existing platforms, the infrastructure needed to support these and how to better connect devices and consumer goods.

It will also focus on addressing the challenges and opportunities of building a digital media and content business, with knowledge from those in digital industries being transferred to non-digital businesses that are looking to use digital technologies.

At the launch of the new centre, business secretary Vince Cable said it was a long-term investment that would help the UK to achieve sustainable and balanced growth.

"We have world-leading, innovative businesses in the ICT, digital and creative sectors which have considerable potential for growth. For instance, a few years ago, there were just 15 technology start-ups around Old Street and Shoreditch – now there are hundreds of high-tech companies in the area.

"The centre is a practical way in which government can support industry to maintain its competitive advantage so that they can continue to be leading the way in making products and services that people want," he added.

The centre is managed by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB), which is inviting applications from anyone interested in running the facility.

The CDEC centre will complement the £400m East End Tech City scheme which is also sponsored by the government.