Past Programmes: Innovation Masters
Putting innovation theory into practice across East Sussex
Throughout 2022, the Innovation Masters Programme, supported by UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund, sought to empower East Sussex Businesses in the wake of Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. It was designed to provide small businesses outside of traditional economic centres with the market insights, inspiration and skills to adapt, thrive and unlock their growth potential.
As part of the programme, Sussex Innovation mentors travelled to different towns across the county to deliver facilitated group sessions, challenging business owners with strategies to develop new ways of working. We offered expert advice and mentoring to help decide on effective routes forward, as well as support for businesses seeking investment and addressing major challenges to their approach.
Key components of the programme included:
- Intensive business support from the Innovation Hit Squad to introduce new products to market.
- Blended digital and in-person delivery via Innovation Masterclass and Investment Bootcamp workshop days and the Sussex Pioneers video series.
- Collaboration with regional partners, including Chambers of Commerce and business support networks in Falmer, Eastbourne, Hastings, Newhaven, Lewes, Rye and Uckfield.
- Focus on upskilling employees to safeguard jobs and support long-term business resilience.
THE IMPACT:
- 850 small businesses in East Sussex supported with access to innovation theory and practice
- 250 businesses enabled to introduce new products or services
- 300 full-time equivalent jobs safeguarded by upskilling employees and improving job retention
- 20 organisations engaged in knowledge transfer activities with the University of Sussex
- 5 new products brought to market by participating companies
You’ll be glad to know that I secured my first £20k of investment the day after your bootcamp, using the 60 second pitch!
Sussex Pioneers helped me to reinforce what I was thinking – listening to others made me feel confident that I was doing something right. A standout series of programmes. Thank you.
