Business innovation projects launch with Essex University
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, in partnership with the University of Essex, has funded four business innovation projects thanks to the unique Innovate to Elevate programme.
Jointly funded and supported by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils alongside the University of Essex, local organisations are invited to apply for fully funded collaborative projects with highly experienced academics and research staff from the University to support business growth.
Digital services agency Orbital Media, architectural and interior design practice Project Orange, school photography specialists Braiswick Photographic and fine wine merchants 92 or More will each access up to £10,000 worth of academic expertise to help find solutions to their business challenges to help them grow.
Cllr Derek Davis, cabinet member for economic growth for Babergh District Council, said:
"It is exciting to see our businesses embarking on a journey of growth thanks to the Innovate to Elevate programme.
"It is a great way for our businesses to gain access to extremely talented academics and research staff who in turn, will enable them to bring their innovative ideas to life.”
Cllr Teresa Davis, cabinet member for thriving towns and rural communities Mid Suffolk’s cabinet member for thriving towns and rural communities, said:
"It is excellent that these businesses have successfully found the expertise of the University through Innovate to Elevate.
"The programme turns entrepreneurial spirit into reality for a business, which aids success for them and helps our wider community. I hope more businesses will get involved.”
Holly Leonard, Innovation Partnerships Manager from the University of Essex says:
"We’ve seen no shortage of entrepreneurial spirit from businesses across Babergh and Mid Suffolk. Many know their biggest challenges and supporting them to find the right solution, expertise, and funding to innovate has been inspiring.
"The collaborative relationships we’ve built with the successful applicants so far have been highly rewarding and we’re excited for the impact the partnerships can deliver for all involved. We’re still inviting local businesses to take advantage of these fully funded collaborations.
"At Essex we have over 800 talented researchers undertaking world-leading research, meaning organisations across Babergh and Mid Suffolk can access a wide range of expertise - from developing an entrepreneurial culture, to supply chain management, to technology adoption and automation.”Eligibility for the scheme is flexible to encourage participation across a variety of sectors and company sizes.
Businesses must be UK-owned and registered and be based locally in the Babergh and Mid Suffolk district to be eligible.
