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Events to unlock innovation in the North East

Two free events designed to help North East businesses to unlock their innovation potential are set to take place during November.

The North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) is set to host an Innovation Programme Open Session on Wednesday, November 06 and aSpecialist and Supplier Network event on Wednesday, November 20.

The Innovation Programme, delivered by a specialist team at the BIC, is designed to help SMEs to innovate. It offers expert industry advice and up to 40 per cent project funding towards schemes including product and service developments and improved business processes.

The Innovation Team is currently working with over 20 businesses the length and breadth of the region operating in sectors including renewable energy, manufacturing, environmental, cosmetics, software and digital to help them realise their innovation potential.

The information session on 06 November will provide an opportunity for businesses to put their queries to the team behind the programme and hear from some of the people who have directly benefited from the scheme so far.

Elizabeth Shaw, innovation manager at the BIC, said: “The open event is a perfect taster session aimed at anyone considering engaging with the programme to find out more about what’s involved, to ask questions and to hear from some of the companies that are already reaping the benefits of the scheme.”

And the Innovation Programme Specialist and Supplier Network event on 20 November is available to individuals and businesses on the Innovation Programme’s approved list of suppliers; the experts that are available to help businesses fulfil their innovation ambitions.

The event will provide an opportunity for suppliers and specialists to hear more about the region’s innovation agenda and will feature a presentation by Professor Roy Sandbach, Newcastle University’s Goldman Professor and adviser to the North East LEP, who will be sharing his views on this important topic. The Innovation Team will also be outlining what is next for the Innovation Programme.

Elizabeth added: “Key to the success of the Innovation Programme is the ability to provide businesses with access to a wide range of industry experts and suppliers. This event is a chance for us to keep them informed about developments in the programme and to hear from Professor Sandbach, one of the region’s leading experts on innovation.”

The Innovation Programme utilises £724,000 of ERDF investment and is part financed by the European Union’s ERDF Competitiveness Programme 2007 – 2013 to promote a step change in the region by encouraging North East businesses to unlock their innovative potential.

Both events will take place between 5.30pm and 7.30pm at the North East Business and Innovation Centre, Sunderland. To find out more about the programme or to book a place call the Innovation Team on 0191 516 6021or email innovation@ne-bic.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section