Interesting talk this afternoon at Southern Manufacturing by Dr. Zoe Webster from Innovate UK.
Zoe explained that Innovate UK work with people, businesses and partner organisations to find and drive the science and technology innovations that will grow the UK economy, often through competitions and project funding.
Zoe explained they are focussed on four sectors to help accelerate growth which include:
- Emerging technologies
- Health and life sciences
- Infrastructure
- Manufacturing and materials
Out of these four, Zoe went on to say that Innovate UK currently see the biggest opportunities for growth in the manufacturing and materials sector. However, they also recognise there are challenges along the way and have set a number of ambitious targets which include doubling labour productivity by 2030 whilst halving the environmental impact of manufacturing.
Zoe concluded her presentation by talking through several case studies in which Innovate UK have successfully worked in partnership with businesses to launch new products to market or continue vital R&D work.
To find out more about Innovate UK and some of the funding competitions they run click here
