About
What’s the Plus X formula?
We create inspiring work space that unlocks potential; driving business growth and innovation, community collaboration and positive social impact.
In partnership with specialist regeneration developer, U+I, we will launch Plus X hubs across the UK. Plus X Brighton innovation hub launches in May 2020 and we are evolving our existing site at the Central Research Laboratory, Hayes to launch Plus X Powerhouse in Spring 2021.
Plus X is pleased to be working in partnership with the University of Brighton and Coast to Capital on an upcoming innovation programme in Sussex supported by the European Regional Development Fund. More information on the programme will be available on this page in May 2020.
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We create innovation hubs
We create innovation hubs
From the buildings we design to the coffee we choose, we work with inspiring partners to create hubs that drive positive productivity, collaboration, world class connectivity and member wellbeing.
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WE DELIVER HEALTHY & EFFECTIVE WORK SPACE
WE DELIVER HEALTHY & EFFECTIVE WORK SPACE
We know a positive mindset drives productivity but there are always new business challenges. From access to mentors, experts and learning workshops to fitness and meditation classes with a healthy range of nutrition options, Plus X is shaped to help our members build business strength and resilience.
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WE OFFER SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT & SUPPORT
WE OFFER SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT & SUPPORT
Precision CNC machining, laser cutters, 3D printers, micro electronic workshops and customised podcast studios. Helping our members and partners build concept prototypes to successful businesses sits at the core of our Plus X approach. Our world class facilities will help make visions a reality.
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WE CURATE CONNECTION & COLLABORATION
WE CURATE CONNECTION & COLLABORATION
We drive connection and collaboration at all levels of business and society. In fact at Plus X, curated collaboration is baked in! From connecting local communities to help discover new entrepreneurs to driving innovation and mindset change within global corporations, we fundamentally believe collaboration drives prosperity.
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WE ACCELERATE GROWTH & DRIVE INNOVATION
WE ACCELERATE GROWTH & DRIVE INNOVATION
Innovation and business growth are intrinsic but creating a framework for innovation isn’t always easy. Our Plus X programmes and services are designed to help all types of business ignite the fuel of innovation. Plus X accelerator and innovation programmes together with member access to professional expertise means our support is all encompassing.
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WE CHAMPION EDUCATION & SKILLS
WE CHAMPION EDUCATION & SKILLS
Business leaders want diverse and skilled employees. Locals want fulfilling and properly paid work. Graduates want to find work that makes the most of their qualifications. And yet so often these ambitions are not realised. Plus X works with universities, colleges, schools and training providers to maximise talent and connect it with business opportunity.
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WE MAXIMISE SOCIAL IMPACT
WE MAXIMISE SOCIAL IMPACT
Purposeful businesses know they must focus on impact, not just activity. We help create meaningful jobs, retain talent, drive inclusion, increase confidence and improve productivity. And we are committed to delivering a positive social impact in all our locations. We will constantly strive to do better.
Leadership Team
Mat Hunter
Co-CEO
Mat's career began in Silicon Valley with world renowned innovation agency, IDEO. Since, he has been Chief Design Officer at the Design Council and Managing Director of the Central Research Laboratory. He is recognised as a thought leader, frequently speaking at innovation and design conferences, arts and business institutions.
"Always make new mistakes” advised Esther Dyson, the US-based investor and author, as a way to describe an innovator's rapid learning through trial and error. I like to think of Plus X as the place where innovators can succeed by learning from others’ mistakes as well as their own”
Get in contactPaul Rostas
Co-CEO
Paul started his career in brand management with Unilever, before establishing a leading reputation in equity research in the City of London analysing European FMCG companies and subsequently property companies for global banks such as JP Morgan. He went on to build successful new businesses for companies such as ICAP in property risk management, before embarking on his own entrepreneurial career in technology and innovation, culminating in the creation of Plus X in 2018.
"Having had many years on the rollercoaster that is the life of a startup entrepreneur, I know how important it is to be able to evolve ideas and share challenges with like-minded people,particularly with diverse backgrounds and experiences”.
Get in contactToby Kress
Programme and Managing Director, Plus X Powerhouse
Toby Kress has worked closely with startups for the past 10 years and designed and developed highly successful innovation programmes and accelerators for corporations, startups and scaleups. Before joining Plus X, Toby led the oldest startup incubator in Shoreditch helping startups scale from launch to Series A.
"The explosion of change happening today is unprecedented and exciting. Our mission is to support innovators who are creating products and services inspired by change, making a positive impact on the world around them”
Get in contactGaby Jesson
Chief Marketing Officer
Gaby Jesson has over 25 years experience as a leader in the marketing industry, working both agency and in-house for global brands including Nike, Coca Cola, Mini, LG, Nokia, Selfridges and a range of digital startups. She co-owned an award winning marketing agency for 16 years and led the communications strategy for the launch of Plexal, a tech startup campus located at the Olympic Park.
“I love a business success story and am both fascinated & inspired by the resilience and inventiveness of new generation entrepreneurs. I am looking forward to bringing partners to our Plus X innovation hubs and helping to support our members and their business growth ambitions".
Get in contactOlga Hopton
Managing Director, Plus X Brighton
A resident of Brighton, Olga Hopton is expert in what it takes to make a great work space and a strong community. From specifying the buildings, to recruiting the team, developing the services and buying truckloads of plants, Olga has done it all, first with the Custard Factory in Birmingham, then with Platr9rm in Brighton, and now with Plus X. Olga has a strong commitment to ensure wellbeing and sustainability sit within the heart of all our Plus X innovation hubs.
"People think you can build connections and community with an App. You can't. It takes a team of curious and charismatic people, passionate about connections and collaboration."
Get in contact
