Adrian Green from Heavy Lift Projects (launch academy 5 graduate), Ellie Smith - Innovation Manager (one-to-one SME support), and Colette Matthewman - Innovation Lead for SME Programmes_cropped.jpg — Pictured, from left, Colette Matthewman, innovation lead for SME programmes at ORE Catapult; Adrian Green, of Heavy Lift Projects (launch academy 5 graduate); and Eleanor Smith, innovation manager at ORE Catapult

ORE Catapult opens Launch Academy entries

A technology accelerator programme is opening applications for early-stage firms looking to break into the offshore wind supply chain.

ORE Catapult has opened entries for its award-winning Launch Academy programme, which supports companies with innovative products and services through targeted technology development, business growth support and professional services expertise.

Since launching in 2020, the programme has backed 74 companies, which have collectively raised £27.5 million in private investment and £11.7 million in grant funding, while filing 153 patents across regional and national cohorts.

The one-year national programme, starting in June, will be sponsored by ScottishPower Renewables, EDF Power Solutions and JERA Nex bp.

Ten companies will be selected, with innovation challenges covering inspection hardware, lifting and handling, faster construction and lower environmental impact.

Andrew Macdonald, director of business development at ORE Catapult, which is headquartered in Glasgow and operates major research and testing facilities in Blyth, in Northumberland, and in Fife, said: “This is the sixth year that we have run Launch Academy – providing fantastic opportunities for ambitious SMEs looking to break into the offshore wind space, to progress their innovative technologies and move us ever closer towards the UK’s clean energy ambitions, and potential global success.

“We are grateful to our industry sponsors for their continued support of the Launch Academy mission to strengthen the UK’s offshore supply chain, and we welcome their expertise in supporting the next cohort of inspiring companies over the course of the programme.”

To find out more about the Launch Academy programme, see here.

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