Sian Garwood

For many Year 10 students, work experience is a mandatory part of the school calendar. But for Elissa, a student at Stour Valley Community School in Suffolk, it became a transformative journey into the world of programming, artificial intelligence, and professional life.

Recognising the vibrant and supportive community at The EpiCentre innovation hub, it’s clear that the female-led businesses based here are making a powerful impact—not just for themselves, but for their many clients and customers.
The diversity and strength of enterprises founded by women at The EpiCentre is truly impressive. Centre Manager Helen Earl has partnered with Business Weekly to spotlight a standout selection—six exceptional businesses leading the way.

Across the UK’s thriving life sciences sector, access to the right infrastructure, support, and community can make all the difference. And increasingly, regional hubs like The EpiCentre in Haverhill are playing a pivotal role in helping biotech start-ups move from concept to the lab bench to market-ready innovation.

‘It’s a family affair’ for accounting practice 1 Accounts that has relocated to The EpiCentre from the centre of Haverhill.
The firm that provides accounting, tax and business advice to its clients comprises five members of the Donno family, together with its thirteen support staff.

To say Oxford Innovation-based company Active Needle is ultra-sound is an understatement. The young business has the potential to be a global game-changer in a number of science & technology arenas from cancer to aquaculture

Foot Health with Caring Hands is opening its doors from July 2025, with a brand-new clinic at The EpiCentre, bringing professional foot care to Haverhill and the surrounding area.
The clinic is purposely designed for patient treatments along with a waiting area and specific foot care information. Owner Sue Irvine has over 15 years of providing support and healthcare services in the community.

Many small businesses reach a tipping point – they need to grow but are concerned whether they are making the right decision about taking on someone. Can I afford it? How can I manage them? What happens if it goes wrong?
Taking on your first employee is a significant milestone for any small business. It marks the transition from a solo operation to a growing company…which can be both scary and exciting in equal measures.

In-home senior care company Quality Living Plus, has taken a six-person office at The EpiCentre in Haverhill, to accommodate its growing domiciliary care business.

If you’re a scientist, innovator, or entrepreneur with a big idea in life sciences, biotechnology, or microbiology, you know that turning breakthrough concepts into reality is no small feat. The journey from discovery to market is filled with challenges—especially when it comes to finding the right space, equipment, and support to fuel your growth.

An Interview with Gary Jennings, Innovation Director, The EpiCentre Haverhill
For many UK start-ups in biotech and AI, selling doesn’t come naturally. Founders are often scientists, engineers, developers or researchers—brilliant at building, but less comfortable with business. Yet, no matter how innovative your product is, it won’t make an impact unless someone buys it.