Available to SMEs who are committed to embracing innovation as a whole business process, but lack the ability and/or confidence to make the change.

Twelve hours one-to-one support (typically delivered within a four to six month period) is available to eligible businesses. The support covers four themes and a ‘pick and mix’ approach ensures that support is provided where it is needed most, and is tailored to the specific needs of the business.

The four themes are:

  • Horizon Scanning – analysing how emerging trends and developments may potentially affect current activity.
  • Strategic Planning – helping SMEs take a structured, sustainable and focused approach to embedding innovation throughout the business.
  • Digital Landscape – opening new markets through understanding new and developing technologies.
  • Attracting Innovative People – creating an innovative culture by cultivating knowledge from within the SME, and then managing it well.

Eligibility

The Flexible Support Programme is available to:

  • SMEs operating with a B2B remit
  • Can demonstrate a strong commitment to understanding what innovation means for your business and putting it into practice
  • Can dedicate 12 hours of time
  • Potential impact will result in change

The North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) has received £899,250 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The new programme is part funded through the fund.

Find Out More

For further information about the Flexible Support Programme contact:

Michelle Hambleton, Innovation Adviser at the North East BIC

Tel: 0191 516 6039

Email: [email protected]

Partners Offering this Support