New businesses have an opportunity to get a foot in the door at a thriving technology centre this month.

The Sussex Innovation Centre (SInC) at Falmer, home to more than 30 technology and knowledge-based start-up companies, has room for two new ventures.

It is first time in the centre's five-year history office space has been offered.

Centre manager Chris Hudson said: "We operate as an incubator for new businesses with tenant companies selected on the basis of growth potential.

"Companies are only allowed to stay at the centre for a limited period, three years in most cases, by which time they are usually ready to move on.

"Until now, we have always had new tenants lined up to take over as established companies graduate. We get new applications for space every week but only a select few will make the grade and pass our rigorous selection process. Competition is fierce but we always find room for a really good idea."

A base at the centre has proved an advantage for many previous tenants, including firms in the fields of software, internet, biosciences, engineering, design and electronics.

Mr Hudson said: "About 30 per cent of the companies based here reach £1million turnover and some much higher. At the other end of the scale only five per cent have gone bankrupt while another five per cent have ceased trading.

"A key aspect of the centre's success is that middle 60 per cent who have become sustainable and profitable small technology businesses providing valuable skills and services to the region."

The centre aims to provide affordable space for its occupants.

Mr Hudson said the available offices were suitable for four or five people with a floor space of about 200sqft. There was an entry-level fee of £23 per square foot a year, including rent, non-domestic business rates and charges for heat, light and power. The deal also offerred support from skilled professional staff, an advisor network and the chance to work alongside like-minded companies.

He added: "A new company can hardly afford not to apply because the Innovation Centre is virtually a passport to success."

An ambitious £3.5million expansion programme is under way at the centre, which will double the space available in the existing building. The aim is to provide larger office space for companies to expand into without leaving the premises.

Anyone interested in how to apply for the two start-up offices can register online at the web site or call SInC reception on 01273 704400 for a tenant pack.

www.sinc.co.uk