One if this year's most significant public sector economic development projects is the Oxford to Cambridge Arch. Launched in 2000, the Arch aims to become the largest and most successful knowledge-based economy in Europe and ultimately, the world, rivalling that of Silicon Valley.
The Arch is situated at the crossroads of a diverse mix of regions. The western and eastern ends of the Arch comprise Oxford and Cambridge - cities that are not only home to two of the most intellectually prestigious universities in the world but have also generated a booming sub-region of innovative and world-leading technological activity.
Now an online business network has been developed for the Arc, which is designed to capture the spirit of innovation, scientific and technological achievement and entrepreneurship.
Developed by Cambridge-based firm Virtual Business Network, it will provide business-to-business links, allowing greater interaction between knowledge-based companies and those with an interest in supporting them.
Clustering and networking have long been seen as necessary for individuals and organisations to succeed - it is especially important where innovation, entrepreneurship and growth are involved.
VBN chief executive John Jeffrey said: 'In recent years there has been an enormous growth in awareness of the need for business people to network with others to be successful.'
'This is especially true where innovation, entrepreneurship and growth are involved and the technology communities of Cambridge and Oxford are a very good example of this. On line communities and websites can facilitate this urge in a way that was not previously possible.'
With its vast capacity for information storage and communication, the virtual network will help to increase knowledge and spread ideas, improving competitiveness and generation grown.
VBN has been providing e-community websites for over two years to organisations such as the Cambridge Network, Venturefest Oxford, the YMCA and Trade Partners UK.
John Jeffrey added: 'The virtual network will raise the profile of the business community in order to attract inward investment and facilitate online networking for both the Arch community and as a link for the global technological world.'
'We are now entering phase two of the project which involves the development of business centre services, a conference centre, supplier warehouse and online and mobile services.'
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Raising profiles...John Jeffrey
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