The 2026 Innovation Challenge is powered by TBAT Innovation & The Dains Group, in partnership with Headline Sponsor Shakespeare Martineau and Platinum Sponsor Barclays Eagle Labs.

This online workshop, is sponsored by Forresters IP.  Now that your idea has legs, the second IC26 workshop focuses on turning it into reality. Explore routes for early product development, the fundamentals of securing intellectual property, and how to bring in initial funding. Learn what to consider when taking on your first staff and how to structure shares and equity so your business is built for long-term stability. Ideal for innovators ready to move from planning to building.

The event will feature short presentations, Q&A sessions and include a comfort break.

Take a look at our workshop speakers and the topics they will be covering:

– The Mini Investment Readiness (IRP): What it covers and how it prepares you for investment. Daniel Gaize, Future Planet Capital

– Understanding the British Business Bank: Equity, Debt and How to Get Ready. Lewis Stringer, British Business Bank

– Advanced Funding for R&D Tax Credits and Grant Funding: How it works and when to use it. Dom Peasley, Sprk Capital

– Intellectual Property for Start-Ups: Jagvir Purewal & Greg Smith, Forresters IP

– Founder Case Study -Harry Brooksbank, Nafura Advanced Technologies

-Employing Your First People – Contracts, Rights and Legal Responsibilities: Rhys Wyborn, Shakespeare Martineau

– HR Foundations for Growing businesses: Kay Mellor, Isosceles Finance

– Introduction to Grant Funding: Esther Lawrence, TBAT Innovation

– R&D Tax Credits Explained: Yasmin Dalton, TBAT Innovation

– SEIS and EIS : How Early-stage Investment Incentives Work: Sam Stephens, TBAT Innovation

This workshop is part of a series of five interactive events designed to support SMEs through the highs and lows of innovation, growth, and success. All workshops are free to attend and open to the public, with no requirement to apply for the Innovation Challenge.

Link to register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/#register/4250699210579687768

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Your innovation deserves recognition

The Medilink Midlands Awards are now open, celebrating outstanding innovation across the region’s medtech and life sciences sector.

With 10 categories to enter, now’s the time to showcase your achievements.
Extended Deadline Date: 16th January

Start your application today.

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​

Almost There! Just Tell Us a Bit About You​