A partnership between Scarborough Group International and Sheffield Technology Parks explores how purpose-built environments like Stadium Workspace are reshaping what it means to support startups – blending flexibility, community and wellbeing in the heart of a growing innovation cluster.
When we think about innovation in action, we often picture breakthrough ideas, cutting-edge research and game-changing technology. But more often than not, it’s the environment around us – the people we meet, the conversations we have and the support we receive – that enables innovation, turning a promising concept into something that can scale and thrive.
For founders and teams working at the intersection of technology, health, sport and wellbeing, a workspace isn’t just a place to sit and set up a laptop. It’s about being part of an ecosystem where problems can be shared, connections are made and the right support – at the right time – is on hand.
At Stadium Workspace, based within Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, that ecosystem is very much by design.
A community that works (and works together)
Set within Steel City Stadium, this is not your typical office environment. The rhythm of daily sporting activity – from elite training to community matches – creates an energy that’s hard to replicate. It’s a reminder that performance, whether physical or professional, is about more than effort alone. It’s about environment and mindset, and it reflects a bigger ambition: to make work and wellbeing part of the same conversation.
Inside, the space is shaped around the realities of startup life, combining flexibility, functionality and access to a network of others on a similar journey. Informal interactions in the coworking lounge or over coffee in the café often spark valuable conversations – whether it’s sharing ideas, unpicking challenges or chancing upon unexpected partnerships.
This kind of unstructured, peer-to-peer interaction can be just as valuable as formal networking events, especially in fast-moving sectors where knowledge and collaboration are key.
Supporting every stage of growth
Startups rarely follow a straight line. From solo founders testing an idea to fast-growing teams looking for a long-term base, the workspace offers flexibility that matches the pace and unpredictability of business growth.
But flexibility is more than just hot-desking and short leases. It’s about creating a support structure that adapts with you – through coworking memberships, serviced offices or fully leased suites, with no pressure to commit beyond what you need.
Even for early-stage ventures not yet ready for a physical presence, the ability to anchor themselves in a credible, sector-aligned ecosystem through a virtual office address can be a helppful strategic advantage, opening doors without overextending resources.
Prioritising focus and wellbeing
Wellbeing at work matters. And that means more than just having a bike rack and a breakout area – it means creating a culture where work and wellness are truly integrated and not competing priorities.
At Stadium Workspace, this is embedded throughout: from the building-wide superfast broadband and secure 24/7 access, to on-site showers, a performance-focused café, active travel facilities and park-wide running routes and fitness equipment. Founders and teams aren’t forced to choose between productivity and self-care – they’re supported in achieving both.
The new café, powered by Sheffield-based Food Fusion, already plays an important role in the workday experience. Designed with performance nutrition in mind, it’s a space that supports energy and focus as much as it encourages informal meetings and socialising – all key contributors to wellness and work.
The bigger picture
Perhaps most importantly, Stadium Workspace is part of something bigger. Located among key organisations at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park – including the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, Canon Medical Arena, English Institute of Sport Sheffield and the soon-to-open National Centre for Child Health Technology – members are part of an innovation cluster tackling real-world problems.
Plus, partners Sheffield Technology Parks bring expert business support to members of Stadium Workspace, from funding advice and strategy sessions to connections with investors and research partners.
A workspace can’t build your product or raise your first funding round, but it can connect you with people who’ve done it before. The right environment can give you the headspace to think strategically and surround you with the kind of energy and support that spurs you on – even through the really tough days.
Want to see the space for yourself?
To arrange a tour or find out more, contact: workspace@steelcitystadium.com or visit steelcitystadium.com.
