Receive access to fully-funded workshops and 1-2-1 business support through the Somerset Innovation
Released On 26th Sep 2023
The Somerset Innovation Network (SI-Net) is still open to applications from forward-thinking businesses in Somerset that are looking to grow, develop, and collaborate with other innovative organisations.
Run by Business West, the programme offers a mixture of tailored 1-2-1 support, informative business-focussed workshops, as well as networking opportunities – all to support collective and regional ambitions.
It aims to drive innovation and make support for businesses easier to access, encouraging collaboration between organisations by bringing together three innovation centres in Somerset: iAero in Yeovil, Digital Innovation Centre in Taunton, and SEIC in Bridgwater.
Businesses in the Aerospace, Advanced Engineering, Low Carbon and Digital sectors are eligible for support - at no cost to them. The project is fully-funded by Somerset Council and the European Regional Development Fund.
Workshops on the programme are held regularly and are an opportunity for participants to gain valuable business insight and guidance, building key knowledge in topics such as marketing strategy, sustainability and becoming ‘grant-ready’, as well as SEO, LinkedIn strategy and website presence.
Programme beneficiary Chris Jones, Director at In Reality Ltd, commented: “We have been really impressed with the support provided by the Somerset Innovation Network. We have participated in a number of events including Digital Marketing and Market Strategy workshops, which have been really useful.”
1-2-1 support is also available through expert Business Advisors, who take businesses through a review of their company, before putting together a tailored plan of support to help them grow, scale and realise their innovative potential.
Alexander Pervak, from Ai Century, has been working with Sian Davenport, Business Advisor at Business West, for several months. He commented: “All is going brilliantly. I’m getting huge value from Sian’s sessions and webinars.”
Jane Purdy, Head of Enterprise at Business West and Project Manager for Si-Net, said: “There’s a lot of opportunities available for businesses who are part of the Somerset Innovation Network. We will work with you to identify new market potential, assess your business model and product strength, and grow your network.”
The SI-Net programme will continue to support Somerset businesses with a new round of workshops coming soon – for which dates are due to be released shortly.
To find out more about the Somerset Innovation Network and register your interest, visit: https://www.businesswest.co.uk/grow/somerset-innovation-network
