The Oxford Trust

Introduction

The Oxford Trust is an independent charitable trust established in 1985 by Oxford entrepreneurs Sir Martin Wood and Lady Audrey Wood, founders of Oxford Instruments. Its mission is to encourage the study, application, and communication of science, technology, and engineering[2][3].

Objectives and Programmes

The Trust operates across three primary objectives:

• Innovation: The Oxford Trust supports the innovation ecosystem by providing spaces for science and tech start-ups to grow. It owns and manages innovation centres such as the Oxford Centre for Innovation and the Wood Centre for Innovation, which serve as incubators for businesses in the science and technology sectors[2][4].
• Education: Through its public-facing brand, Science Oxford, the Trust aims to inspire young people about science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM). These educational initiatives are designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of science among students[2][4].
• Engagement: The Trust engages public audiences with science, highlighting its importance in culture. This engagement includes activities that make scientific research accessible and relevant to people of all ages[2][4].

Charitable Model

The Trust employs a self-sustaining model, where returns generated from its innovation centres are reinvested into Science Oxford’s education and engagement programmes. This approach allows the Trust to support both emerging science start-ups and science education simultaneously[4].

Impact and Partnerships

The Oxford Trust has played a crucial role in fostering the innovation ecosystem in Oxfordshire, contributing to its growth as a hub for science parks and incubators. The Trust collaborates with numerous partners to deliver its programmes effectively[1][4]. Many businesses, including notable companies like Navenio and Perspectum, have grown and flourished under the Trust's support[4].

Recent Developments

In recent years, the Trust has continued to support cutting-edge projects, such as AI accelerator startups. For example, Lumai, based at the Wood Centre for Innovation, secured significant funding to further its AI research[1]. Additionally, visits by prominent figures like Professor Dame Angela McLean, Government Chief Scientific Adviser, affirm the Trust's role in advancing science engagement and innovation[1].

[1] https://theoxfordtrust.co.uk [2] https://theoxfordtrust.co.uk/about-us/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/292664 [4] https://www.ocfi.co.uk/the-oxford-trust/ [5] https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/get-involved/charity/