Since its creation in 1996 the Innovation Network has introduced hundreds of companies to the expertise, knowledge and facilities of the University through a regular programme of evening meetings, a dedicated email address Innovation@cardiff.ac.uk, a freephone telephone service - 0800 801750 and this website.
Among small businesses to reap the benefits of the Innovation Network meetings are GX Design Engineers, of Usk. Commercial director Frank Marsh said:
"It is a tremendously well organised scheme and the meetings are always very well attended. The guest speakers are also always excellent, with international, national and local experts speaking on some very interesting topics. It is also very useful to be able to meet other companies and exchange ideas. We do get an awful lot out of attending."
The Innovation Network is recognised by many businesses and those in the public sector to be an important source of problem solving and knowledge based resource provision.
It is the "first port of call" for businesses that want assistance from the University.
Representatives from a range of South Wales companies form the Industry Advisory Group which helps the University to ensure the Innovation Network's activities address the needs of the industry.
What Are The Benefits?
- Rapid access to people and resources to tackle your problems and assess your opportunities.
- Increase your network of contacts amongst companies and organisations all keen on growth and development.
- Information on funding to support collaborative research and consultancy.
- A regular programme of evening meetings on key topics relevant to businesses
- Schemes to match participants' technology and research needs and opportunities.
Who Can Participate?
Any company, enterprise or public body, large or small, can get involved.
What Does It Cost?
The only cost is your time in making contact and optional attendance at meetings which, as far as possible, are arranged for evenings.
Michael Mc Grane (MEM Group), Sir Brian Smith and Graham Waters (Pentwyn Splicers) at this year's Innovation Network Awards
Graham Waters - Director of Pentwyn Splicers, which produces devices for joining thread, typically used in the textile and carpet industry, said:
"From the outset in late 1996, we have been totally committed to innovation; survival in a dying market place has made that essential. We joined the Network hoping to pick up the odd idea, and the odd contact. The reality was different. Our links with the University are now so close that any new idea which I may have is automatically "mapped" in my mind on my picture of what is available in the University. Cardiff inputs, whether practical or intellectual, have become part of my innovation process. That's the truth...."
Email: Innovation@cardiff.ac.uk or Freephone 0800 801750.
