Bedford for Business – October Bulletin

Bedford for Business
Business News

SEMLEP Network & Learn Event

networkYou are invited to Network & Learn, an exclusive, monthly networking event that provides a unique opportunity to connect with business professionals from across the South East Midlands region.

Taking place on 31st October, 9:30 am at Wrest Park, Bedfordshire, Network and Learn presents the opportunity to:

-Listen, learn, and share with members of your business community

-Hear from Guest Speaker, Loell Wolfries, who will be sharing techniques for creative problem-solving in your business

-Discover the variety of business support and workshops available from SEMLEP’s Growth Hub,

-Meet your Growth Hub’s business advisers

If you’re looking to expand your network, learn from like-minded professionals and develop your business, Network & Learn is perfect for you.

Reserve your place today! eventbrite.co.uk/network-learn-tickets


SEMLEP Resilience & Innovation Grant is now open for Expressions of Interest and Applications

semlepGrowth Hub has launched a capital investment grant scheme for Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Resilience and Innovation is a business grant that provides support to enterprises based in the South East Midlands area who are looking to invest in their business leading to growth: to strengthen their business performance and resilience to respond to cost-of-living challenges; increase innovation levels and enhance sustainability, in support for the transition towards a net zero economy.

The total Resilience and Innovation grant fund allocation is £1.9million. The maximum grant intervention through the programme will be up to 50% of eligible capital from £5,000 up to a maximum of £50,000.

Once the Expression of Interest form is complete, you will be contacted by a Growth Hub business adviser within five working days. If eligible, the business adviser will advise you to proceed to full application.

The closing date for the second round of grants closes at 5pm, 15th November 2023.

For more details use the link : Resilience and Innovation grant for small to medium businesses (semlepgrowthhub.com)


Cranfield University launches Future Frontiers Funds and Technology Accelerator Fund

cranfieldCranfield University is delighted to announce that their Green Future Investments Ltd Future Frontiers Fund (GFIL-FFF) and Technology Accelerator Fund (GFIL-TAF) are open again for applications. Innovators and entrepreneurs can apply to scale up ideas which help address the challenges related to tackling climate change, protecting our environment and delivering a Net Zero future. No match funding is required.

The Future Frontiers Fund (FFF) supports the generation of fresh and highly novel ideas, technologies, products and services. We are looking for truly innovative leaps and will provide support through small grants of approximately £10,000 to test ‘might work’ concepts along with technical mentoring support. Eligible applicants include SMEs, start-ups, spinouts, individuals, and students. Applications close November 13th, 5.30PM.

The Technology Accelerator Fund (TAF) provides six awards in the region of £50,000 to innovators with technologies currently at TRL 4-5 to access Cranfield expertise to take ideas or technology to prototype and beyond. Eligible applicants include SMEs, start-ups, and spinouts. Applications close November 13th, 5.30PM.

Please press on links for further details.


University of Bedfordshire Course

uob buildDo you need funding for a business idea or project?

The University of Bedfordshire are hosting a “Funding Made Easy: Enhancing Your Bid Writing Skills” event, where organisations can discover vital tips and tools to develop successful bid submissions.

Taking place on Wednesday 1st November 2023 from 9.30am – 12.30pm at the University of Bedfordshire’s Luton Campus, this event will offer an opportunity for business leaders to receive expert advice and guidance on writing funding applications. In addition, delegates will hear from regional experts about the business support opportunities available in the area.

Why attend?

-Learn a step-by-step process on writing a successful application

-Acquire best practice tips for completing winning tender applications

-Get an overview of Bedfordshire’s current lending landscape

-Receive expert advice on funding opportunities in your area

Spaces are limited, so register today and don’t miss out, for more information and to RSVP, please visit: www.beds.ac.uk/bid-writing-event


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