What does innovation mean to your business? For some organisations, it means adopting new technology or developing new products. For others, it could be improving productivity, streamlining processes or finding smarter ways of working. Innovation is not always about disruptive ideas or major breakthroughs, often, it is about adapting, improving and identifying new opportunities for growth.
That practical approach sits at the heart of Fuelling Innovation Fortnight, returning this June following the success of last year’s programme. Delivered by the University of Northampton and its partners, the two-week initiative brings together businesses from across the region to share ideas, build connections and explore opportunities that can support long-term growth and development.
Running from Monday 22nd June to Friday 3rd July, Fuelling Innovation Fortnight will feature a packed schedule of workshops, networking events, panel discussions and business-focused sessions taking place across Northamptonshire. The programme will explore topics including funding, productivity, skills, technology, collaboration and business growth.
Attendees will hear directly from industry leaders, innovation specialists and regional partners, while gaining insight into the support already available across Northamptonshire’s business community. Organisations involved in the programme include the Federation of Small Businesses, South Midlands Growth Hub, Barclays Eagle Labs, Silverstone Technology Cluster, Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire, Digital Northants and many more.
The programme also highlights the role universities can play in supporting enterprise. Through collaboration, research, facilities, talent and specialist expertise, the University of Northampton works with organisations across the region to help businesses develop, innovate and access new opportunities.
Why should your business get involved? Because this is an opportunity to make valuable connections, discover practical support and gain ideas that can make a real impact. Across the fortnight, attendees will be able to:
- Connect with potential customers, collaborators and partners
- Discover local funding, facilities and specialist expertise
- Gain insight into emerging opportunities and business trends
- Access support designed to help organisations develop and grow
- Build relationships with partners shaping Northamptonshire’s future economy
Whether your focus is growth, diversification, productivity or fresh thinking, Fuelling Innovation Fortnight is designed to leave businesses with practical insight, valuable connections and ideas they can genuinely use.
Event Highlights
Fuelling Innovation: Practical Support for Ambitious Small Businesses
- Date: Tuesday 23rd June
- Time: 8:30-10:30am
- Location: Mini Meadows Farm, Welford, NN6 6HZ
- Partner: FSB
This relaxed event at Mini Meadows Farm is designed for local business owners looking to explore available support, tackle business challenges and build stronger connections across Northamptonshire’s business community.
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Fuelling Innovation: Making Products Happen
- Date: Wednesday 25th June
- Time: 1pm – 4pm
- Location: Global room, Innovation Centre, Silverstone Park
- Partner: Silverstone Technology Cluster, Silverstone Park
Join Silverstone Technology Cluster at Silverstone Park for an interactive workshop on turning innovative ideas into commercially viable products. Led by Benn Klewpatinond, Founder of Inond, the session will cover product development, routes to market and business growth support, including upcoming grant opportunities from South Midlands Growth Hub.
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Fuel Your Growth: Find the Right Funding Path
- Date: Wednesday 1st July
- Time: 9.30am – 1pm
- Location: Vulcan Works
- Partner: South Midlands Growth Hub, Barclays Eagle Labs and the British Business Bank
Delivered by South Midlands Growth Hub, Barclays Eagle Labs and the British Business Bank, this workshop will help businesses explore funding options for growth, from grants and loans to angel and equity investment, through expert panels and real business insights.
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The full programme of events can be found on the University of Northampton Fuelling Innovation page – https://www.northampton.ac.uk/business/fuelling-innovation.
Businesses and individuals interested in taking part are encouraged to explore the schedule and secure their places early.
