Advanced Prototyping Facility the project's overall success

30 July APF European Regional Development Fund has been completed successfully. Over 2 years the project assisted 69 companies from GBSLEP providing 2076h of support.

The potential total impact for GBSLEP area of jobs created to date as a result of the APF project after leakage, multipliers, displacement and deadweight have been attributed to 52 jobs. Assuming these jobs are permanent jobs, these workers would create an additional £2.69m increase in GVA per annum for the area.

The potential total impact for the GBSLEP area of jobs predicted to be created in the next two years have been attributed to 84 jobs. Assuming these jobs are permanent jobs, these workers would create an additional £4.35m increase in GVA per annum for the area.

It is also important to recognise the intangible nature of many of the additional/non-contracted outputs generated as a result of enterprises' participation in the APF project. Anecdotal evidence from the project team suggest that the project has helped to add value, attract investment, improve sustainability, improve understanding, and foster long-term collaborations.

The project also plays an important function in Aston University outreach programme. The APF team members are always willing to showcase their 3D printing facility for visitors which works to boost Aston’s notoriety and to raise awareness amongst industry of, and signposts to, other areas of the universities’ work.

Additionally, the project has been commended for the diverse range of activities and opportunities it gives its academics above and beyond research.

Back to News