The Oxford Trust at 40: How Innovation and Education Power Oxford's Future

How does a 40-year-old charity continue to shape the future of science and innovation in Oxford? In this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager sits down with Steve Burgess, CEO, and Nicki Campling, Director of Innovation and Operations at the Oxford Trust, to explore the organisation's unique role in nurturing startups and inspiring future scientists. From pioneering the UK's first innovation centre to investing over £20 million in state-of-the-art facilities, the Trust has quietly built an ecosystem where early-stage companies can thrive.Listeners will discover how the Trust's dual mission—supporting deep tech startups and delivering hands-on STEM education—creates a virtuous circle that benefits the entire region. The conversation touches on everything from lab space pivots and impact metrics to angel investing, patient capital, and how philanthropic roots enable long-term decision-making. It's a rare look at a sustainable, mission-led model that continues to adapt in a rapidly evolving innovation landscape.(00:00) - Welcome to Oxford+ (00:08) - History and Mission of The Oxford Trust (00:56) - Meet the Guests: Steve Burgess and Nicki Campling (01:14) - Founding and Early Challenges of The Oxford Trust (02:56) - Support for STEM Education and Primary Schools (04:00) - Innovation Centers: Offerings and Clustering (06:22) - Measuring Impact and Planning for the Future (09:30) - Investment Landscape and Adaptation (13:05) - Philanthropy and Recycling Capital (15:44) - Investor Profiles and Opportunities (29:23) - Sustainability and Self-Sustaining Model (30:56) - Property Portfolio and Future Investments (32:14) - Final Thoughts Steve Burgess: CEO of the Oxford Trust, Steve brings strategic leadership to the Trust's innovation and education programmes, with deep insight into the region's startup ecosystem and science infrastructure.Connect with Steve on LinkedInNicki Campling: Director of Innovation and Operations at the Oxford Trust, Nicki oversees the Trust's innovation centres and STEM outreach, blending operational excellence with a passion for inclusive entrepreneurship.Connect with Nicki on LinkedInSusannah de Jager: Susannah is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in UK asset management. She has worked closely with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and government officials to shape the conversation around domestic scale-up capital.Connect with Susannah on LinkedIn / Subscribe to the Oxford+ Newsletter for exclusive contentOxford+ is hosted by Susannah de Jager and supported by Mishcon de Reya and Oxford North.Produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.