Universities’ multi-million £ boost for business

A MULTI-million pound eco-innovation programme, aimed at boosting businesses in Cheshire and Warrington, has been launched.
Eco-innovation Cheshire and Warrington, based at the University of Chester’s Thornton Science Park, connects businesses and universities to achieve business growth and innovation through funded Research and Development (R&D).
Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Cheshire and Warrington area will get unique access to the resource, excellence and expertise of the University of Chester and Lancaster University.
It provides SME businesses with the opportunity to be part of a structured programme of collaborative R&D interventions and activities. It supports SMEs to innovate and commercialise new low carbon products and services.
Eco-Innovation Cheshire and Warrington is delivered by the University of Chester and Lancaster University and is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
The aim is to accelerate a transition towards a low carbon economy in all sectors, which opens the programme to businesses which innovate in a wide range of product, process and service areas. Project ideas are welcomed which might include:
* Environmental technologies, including pollution control and waste management
* Energy applications, including renewable and efficient energy generation, use and storage
* Carbon reduction projects including materials development, alternative fuels, building technologies, and logistics.
The Eco-Innovation team is particularly keen to hear from SMEs which have a substantial innovation idea in mind, but need expert help to get it off the ground.
Those which meet the criteria would benefit from ‘in-depth’ funded R&D.  The deadline for submission of an expression of interest for these projects is Monday June 5.
To find out more and to access support, contact: Rhian Bowen (Business Development Manager at the University of Chester): [email protected]; phone: 01244 512493.