The Advanced and Digital Technologies Innovation Accelerator (ADTIA) programme is a fully funded initiative supporting businesses to develop or adopt digital or new technologies.
Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) via Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, the ADTIA programme has supported 26 local businesses since its launch, helping to drive innovation across the region.
Concentric Solutions, an independent finance transformation and business analytics consultancy, received 360 hours of support to develop an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting solution, tailored to help SMEs stay ahead of compliance requirements while enhancing their sustainability credentials.
MSc Software Engineering graduate Ridwan Olaide Idowu, mentored by academic expert Dr Mehak Memon, was appointed as an Innovation Consultant for the project.
The collaboration proved so successful that Concentric Solutions extended Ridwan’s role through the University’s in-house recruitment agency Unitemps, with part-funding from Higher Education Innovation Funding (HEIF).
Now, Ridwan has secured a full-time position within the company’s technical team to continue developing the solution in-house.
Reflecting on his experience, Ridwan said: “The ADTIA programme provided an invaluable opportunity to apply my academic knowledge in a real industry setting. Working alongside experienced professionals gave me insights into how research, innovation, and sustainability intersect in the corporate world. The mentorship and structured support offered through the programme also helped me to strengthen my professional and interpersonal skills.
“I’m proud to now continue this journey as a full-time member of the team. It feels very rewarding and humbling. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to impactful projects within such a forward-thinking team.”
He added: “I would strongly encourage any student looking for meaningful industry engagement to take advantage of initiatives like this.”
David Watson, Managing Director at Concentric Solutions, said: “The ADTIA programme has provided real, tangible value to Concentric Solutions. Having the opportunity to collaborate with a talented graduate such as Ridwan, meant we were able to progress the development of our ESG reporting solution at a time when our internal team was operating at full capacity. Ridwan brought a fresh perspective, enthusiasm and strong analytical skills that complemented our consulting expertise.
“Ridwan exceeded all our expectations during his time on the ADTIA programme. It was a natural decision to retain him through Unitemps and subsequently offer a permanent position. Beyond the immediate project benefits, the experience also highlights the value of collaboration between industry and academia in driving innovation for SMEs.”
The ADTIA programme is part of a range of business support offered by University of Staffordshire to help drive economic growth and employability in the region.
Justin Pover, Project Manager at University of Staffordshire, said: “This is a great example of how universities can support regional innovation while boosting graduate employability. Ridwan’s success story demonstrates the mutual benefits of collaboration – local businesses get access to our expertise, and our talented graduates gain invaluable industry experience which improves their job prospects.
“If any businesses are interested in learning more about how we can help, we’d love to hear from you.”
Businesses interested in future funded projects or collaborations can register their interest at employers@staffs.ac.uk.