Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ about the Innovation Network

What is the Innovation Network?

The Innovation Network is the "first port of call" for businesses that want assistance from Cardiff University (registered charity no.1136855) and is recognised by many businesses to be an important source of problem solving and knowledge based resource provision

What benefits would my company receive from the Innovation Network?

Since its creation 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 and a FREEPHONE problem solving service. Click here for further information on the Innovation Network.

For further information, visit the About Us pages on this site.

Events FAQ

How much does an Event cost?

All Innovation Network events are free to our members.

How do I become a Member?

To register as a member of the Innovation Network, please complete the form attached here.

What happens during an Event?

The typical event is an evening presentation which follows the format below:

6.00 pm: Registration & Coffee
6.30 pm: Welcome
6.35 pm: Main Speaker(s) / Case Study
7.25 pm: Questions & Close
Free Buffet and Opportunity for Networking

What sort of people present at these events?

Speakers have included:

Ajaz Ahmed - founder of Freeserve
Declan Curry - BBC Business News presenter
Trevor Baylis - Inventor of the windup radio
Mary Perkins - Director of Specsavers
Mike Southon - The Beermat Entrepreneur
George White - Stanford University, Apple Computers and Xerox
Anna Carloss - Cunning
Head of Welsh Water
Advisors to Richard Branson
Welsh Inventors

Where are these events held?

Events are usually held on the University campus.

Can I bring a friend/colleague?

Yes, but we would ask that you arrange for them to Register for the event via our website before the day of the event.

Can I have a copy of the presentation given?

Subject to presenter approval, this will be provided after the event.

What other events does Cardiff University run which are open to businesses?

Cardiff University's website lists all events being run by the University. In addition, individual Schools also run events and these can be checked via the Academic Schools list.

Awards FAQ

What are the entry criteria for these awards?

These awards recognise innovative collaboration between the University and Business and pertain to a long-term relationship.

How often are the awards held?

The awards are held annually and presented in Spring each year.

What kind of publicity do the winners receive?

The winners will be required to engage fully in the resulting PR process. For this reason, projects which are confidential by nature are not eligible to enter.

What other Innovation Award competitions exist in Wales?

The Wales Innovation Award, sponsored by Penn Pharmaceuticals, is run by the Wales
Quality Centre and recognises innovation in three categories : products, services and people.

Visit their website for further information: www.walesqualitycentre.org.uk

Business Support FAQ

I would be interested in having a graduate working at my company on a specific development project for a set time - is this possible?

The KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) Initiative was set up by the Government to enable businesses to access expertise at universities. Funded by the Government, a typical project will require 40% funding from the business and attract 60% Government funding.

If you have a strategic project (eg business improvement, new product development), please visit Cardiff University’s KTP web site to find out more about the potential support available.

What other University resources are available to local businesses?

Visit the Business pages of Cardiff University’s web site for further information on the other services available.

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