The Innovation Challenge is brought to you by TBAT Innovation with headline sponsor Shakespeare Martineau and has been designed by our expert team to stimulate and support innovation in SMEs. It leverages the expertise of our unique partner network while seeing our partners come together to deliver four free to attend, vibrant and informative workshops.
We invite applications for businesses to complete the simple registration page and upload any relevant documents to be considered for our suite of exciting prizes. APPLY HERE!
The winner will receive a £5,000 cash prize and support packages from partners involved in The Innovation Challenge, tailored to their needs. Furthermore, two runners up will receive a free support package from partners involved in The Innovation Challenge.
Who can apply?
- Startups: UK Businesses that are three years old or younger are eligible to apply.
- UK Businesses over three years old that are still heavily involved in R&D or looking to introduce new technology.
- Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Those who are seeking to launch a business in the UK.
- Technology-based Businesses: To be eligible, your business must offer a product or service that is technology-based, showcasing innovative solutions in various sectors.
The Top 10 Finalists will be invited to present a 3-minute pitch at our Finalist Showcase Event, being held on the evening of 11th October 2023, at the Hilton Hotel in Castle Donington; where the winner and 2 runner’s up will be selected and announced.
APPLY NOW! The application window is now open, and will close on 31st August. APPLY HERE.
Online Workshops (1pm-5pm)
The Innovation Challenge will see partners come together to deliver four free to attend, vibrant and informative workshops. Further details can be accessed via the links below:
- 23 March: FINANCE – All you need to know to fund your business growth
Recordings Part 1, Part 2 – SLIDES - 27 April: PEOPLE & RECRUITMENT – Recruiting and retaining the best people you can
Recordings Part 1, Part 2 – SLIDES - 25 May: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT & PROTECTION – How to design and protect your innovation
Recordings Part 1, Part 2 – SLIDES - 15 June: COMMERCIALISATION – Successfully going into market and securing funding
Recordings Part 1, Part 2 – Slides
These topics are barriers that many innovative businesses face, and can cause delays to R&D projects or taking innovative products to market. By discussing these problematic areas openly, the challenge aims to highlight opportunities to reduce the effects of these barriers.