Businesses in South Staffordshire are being encouraged to explore their innovation potential in a new government-funded programme.
The workshops will cover topics like new product development, AI and Net Zero.
We are asking businesses to complete a very simple online form from our website and our team will be in touch. The assessment will signpost them to tailored support workshops available from the university.
The Rapid R&D Assessment and Innovation Generator is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will be delivered by Staffordshire University working in partnership with South Staffordshire District Council following a successful tender bid.
It is open to 60 SMEs and larger companies across the district from Acton Trussell and Bednall to Great Wyrley and Wombourne, who will undergo a 1-2-1 innovation capacity assessment with Staffordshire University.
Staffordshire University Executive Director of Business Engagement Marek Hornak said: “We are asking businesses to complete a very simple online form from our website and our team will be in touch. The assessment will signpost them to tailored support workshops available from the university.
“The workshops will cover topics like new product development, AI and Net Zero. Anyone attending a workshop and demonstrating clear innovation potential will then be able to apply for up to £3k of grant funding.”
There are 20 grants in total which can be spent on further innovation support such as the development of new products or processes, intellectual property, or accessing new markets.
Cllr Victoria Wilson, South Staffordshire Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Business Enterprise and Community Infrastructure said: “Innovation plays an important part in the growth of South Staffordshire’s economy. Investing in research and development and innovation support is fundamental to achieving our vision of prosperous and vibrant communities.
“Supporting businesses to develop new products, services and processes was a priority in our UKSPF investment plan and we are delighted to be working with Staffordshire University to deliver this.”
- The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.