Since 2004, CPI has been instrumental in transforming bright ideas into reality. The organisation is a close friend of NEPIC, having co-existed since NEPIC’s inception 20 years ago, originally sharing a headquarters in the Wilton Centre at Redcar, with both organisations working towards an objective to help the process industries in the Tees Valley and wider North East to grow, innovate and remain globally competitive.
Speaking with CPI’s CEO Frank Millar, it’s clear the organisation’s mission remains as focused as ever to enable industry to access and commercialise emerging technologies, strengthening UK manufacturing and delivering economic impact.
“We’ve built deep tech innovation centres across the North of England and Scotland,” Frank explained. He added, “Our commitment is to catalyse technologies that benefit people, places, and our planet. Over the years, that mission has attracted close to £3 billion in private investment, driving innovation that not only transforms industries but also strengthens local economies and communities. At CPI, we serve as an enabler and a leader, bringing together academia, government, entrepreneurs and investors to build a better, more sustainable future.”
Reflecting on CPI’s 20th anniversary, Frank described it as more than just a celebration. “It’s about recognising two decades of enabling innovation, supporting regional growth and building meaningful collaborations. It means 20 years of helping to de-risk technology, nurture partnerships and bring visionary ideas to life. Most of all, it’s about the people and communities who’ve been part of this journey, who sit behind the innovation and the impact we deliver.”
When asked how the sector has evolved over two decades, Frank commented, “We’ve seen significant transformations across the landscape. There’s now a stronger emphasis on sustainability, digitalisation and collaboration. The sector has become more agile, more integrated, and more driven by partnerships between industry and innovation ecosystems like CPI. The appetite for risk and the support for deep-tech commercialisation has also grown, which is vital to realising the UK’s science and technology potential.”
CPI has proudly been a member of NEPIC for many years, as part of their ongoing commitment to supporting the process and chemical sectors in the North East. When asked what being a NEPIC member means to CPI, Frank commented on the value of a community.
“Being part of NEPIC allows us to connect and collaborate with regional industry leaders, share insights, and support innovation across the process sector. It’s an opportunity to contribute to and benefit from a strong, well-connected community that is aligned with our mission of regional economic growth and technological advancement.”
He continued with “NEPIC offers an incredible network of like-minded organisations and individuals who are passionate about regional growth and industrial excellence. The membership is valuable because it allows members to share knowledge, form partnerships, and collectively tackle shared challenges.”
“Congratulations to NEPIC on 20 years of supporting and championing the North East’s process and chemical industries. Your commitment to collaboration and highlighting the region’s process industry and community is something we truly value. Here’s to the next 20 years of shared progress, partnerships, and impact.”