NE Launchpad Competition

October 15th 2014

The deadline to submit your application for the Process Industries NE Launchpad competition is October 15^th.

Local companies looking for six figure funding to support innovation projects could be eligible to apply. Launchpad could really be an excellent opportunity for a company like yours.

NEPIC is the cluster champion for the NE Launchpad and we are working in conjunction with Innovate UK (formerly the Technology Strategy Board) to help SMEs with their applications.

Launchpad is looking for applications for Innovations in the ‘Process’ sector. ‘Process’ can be interpreted widely and covers everything  from chemicals to pharmaceuticals and from bio resources to steel processing.

In addition an innovation does not just mean a new or improved chemical product. It also includes  systems and operations and products in the supply chain which make the industry more profitable or sustainable.

For example, it could be an engineering company with a new type of valve or control system, a new piece of software, or a new analytical method .

Please note that SMEs from right across the NE are eligible. (You can also be ‘out of region’ and apply so long as you can demonstrate that your innovation will benefit process sector companies based the North East).

This is an excellent opportunity for local SMEs. After all it’s not very often that you get the chance to apply for a six figure sum (plus lots of additional support) with a two minute video and a page of A4.

If you have now decided to put forward your project for the Innovate UK competition, here is some information to help you with the process.

You can view all the presentation slides from the briefing which was held earlier this month at www.nepic.co.uk/basme or you can find out more about the Launchpad on the Innovate UK website:About the NE Launchpad.   

The first step of the application process is very straightforward: you submit a short application form and a two-minute video describing your ideas.

Here are the videos from two of the successful companies that applied for funding from the NW Launchpad. They clearly demonstrate what is needed for Stage 1 of the application.

Successful Video Application 1: Fusion Implants: advanced veterinary devices.

Successful Video Application 2: Croft Additive Manufacturing.

If you have any questions about your application, please contact support@innovateuk.org or the competition helpline on 0300 321 4357.

If you want any other help please contact me on the details listed below.