From the workshop to the boardroom, supporting Suffolk’s innovators

Here we speak to Tony Stockman, Chairman of Framlingham Technology Centre, about the journey from hands-on prototyping to building a thriving hub for innovation in the heart of Suffolk.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of start-ups and small businesses, many of them led by brilliant minds in biotech, telecoms, and engineering. What they often have in common is a deep technical skillset, but less confidence when it comes to sales and business development. It’s a familiar challenge: you can have the most innovative product in the world, but if no one knows about it, or understands its value, it won’t get far.

At Framlingham Technology Centre, we’ve seen this time and again. That’s why we’re not just about providing space, we’re here to support the people behind the ideas.

From model-making to market-ready

My own journey started in model-making in London, working on everything from architectural models to film sets. It was fast-paced and exciting, but I eventually returned to Suffolk to build something more grounded. That led to the creation of Minima, a design and prototyping business that worked with clients like BT and helped develop early concepts that paved the way for today’s smartphones.

As the business grew, so did the need for space, and for collaboration. We were constantly working with specialists tucked away in sheds and spare rooms, people with incredible talent but no platform to showcase it. That’s what inspired the idea behind Framlingham Technology Centre, a shared space where innovators could work, connect, and grow.

Advice for founders – think like an Estate Agent!

One of the most useful pieces of advice I give to technical founders is to take a leaf out of the estate agent’s book. They don’t just show you a house, they sell you the lifestyle, the potential, the story. Founders need to do the same. Don’t just explain what your product does, show people why it matters, how it solves a problem, and what makes it different.

Sales isn’t about being pushy. It’s about building relationships, listening, and communicating clearly. And like anything else, it’s a skill you can learn.

Building for the future

We’ve just completed the refurbishment of Framlingham Technology Centre, not just to repair storm damage, but to future-proof the space for the next generation of businesses. We’re creating a more flexible, modern environment that reflects the way people work today, whether that’s full-time, hybrid, or project-based.

We’ve recently welcomed several new tenants to the centre, and I’m looking forward to highlighting some of their work in the coming months. There’s a growing sense of momentum here, and with major developments like the ongoing work at Sizewell just a few miles away, I believe the next 12 months could mark a significant turning point, not just for Framlingham Technology Centre, but for the wider business community across Suffolk.

A place to start, grow, and connect

If you’re a founder, freelancer, or small business looking for space to grow, somewhere that understands the challenges and opportunities of innovation, I’d encourage you to come and see what we’ve built at Framlingham Technology Centre.

We’re more than just a workspace. We’re a community of makers, thinkers, and doers, and we’d love to welcome you.

Find out more or enquire about space at:
www.framlinghambusinesscentre.co.uk