Surrey has long been a place of innovation, from the world's first purpose-built motor racing circuit in 1907 at Brooklands to the beginnings of Surrey Space Centre in 1979. Today, innovation is embedded as a way of life in the many established global brands who have their headquarters here, and the exciting entrepreneurial start-ups who sit alongside them. Innovation in the county is further enhanced by cutting-edge research and development at three world-class universities. They all benefit from strong physical, digital and social connectivity including to London and two international airports, as well as a highly skilled workforce.