Cisco expands its presence in the West Midlands at the STEAMhouse Innovation Centre – A major win for the region’s Investment Zone

- Cisco expands its presence to STEAMhouse, Birmingham City University’s flagship £70m innovation centre.
- Cisco’s investment further supports the West Midlands £15bn tech sector, the fastest-growing tech hub in the UK.
Cisco, a global leader in networking and security, has made a strategic investment in the West Midlands with the opening of a new office space at the STEAMhouse Innovation Centre in Birmingham. This move showcases the growing significance of the region as a key hub for technological innovation, business growth, and investment opportunities. As a UK Government-backed initiative, the Investment Zone offers a wealth of resources for businesses looking to scale and invest.
The West Midlands is one of the most attractive places for foreign direct investment in the UK. With access to world-class talent, outstanding universities, and a cutting-edge research and development infrastructure, it’s no surprise that global companies like Cisco are seeing the value in the region. The supportive ecosystem is designed to foster innovation and growth, providing a collaborative environment where businesses can not only thrive but also accelerate their growth through innovation, partnerships, and access to expert resources.
Situated in the heart of Birmingham, STEAMhouse is located in the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter – one of three key Investment Zone sites – and Cisco’s expansion plays an increasingly central role in the region’s growing tech and innovation ecosystem. By locating within this thriving hub, Cisco gains direct access to the region’s exceptional talent pool, innovative R&D infrastructure, and a collaborative community of like-minded tech and digital innovators.
As part of the Investment Zone, companies investing in the West Midlands benefit from tax incentives and direct access to networks that drive innovation and business growth.
With global technology leaders like Cisco investing in the region, the West Midlands is set for significant growth in the coming years. For investors, the West Midlands offers a unique combination of resources and incentives that make it a highly attractive proposition. Whether you’re looking to scale your business, collaborate on R&D, or tap into the UK’s expanding economy, the West Midlands provides the ideal platform for opportunities to scale.

All technology companies should be represented regionally, and in these competitive times, it’s vital to identify the best hubs for talent, innovation, and collaboration. The West Midlands has long demonstrated its strengths in these areas, and this new space reflects our confidence in the region’s important role in driving future growth.
Adele Every, Managing Director, Public Sector of Cisco UK and Ireland
Cisco’s investment in the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter is a big win for our region and a clear vote of confidence in my plan to get our economy growing again.
The world’s top companies are choosing to come here because of the exceptional talent and cutting-edge innovation we can offer them.
The West Midlands has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, and it is still the case today. We are home to a £15bn tech sector and the fastest-growing cluster in the UK. It is businesses like Cisco that mean we can keep going from strength to strength.
Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker
Discover Opportunities in the West Midlands
If you’re looking to scale in the UK’s fastest-growing tech hubs, now is the time to explore investment opportunities available in the region. Learn more about how the West Midlands Investment Zone can accelerate your business growth: