- About postgraduate study
- Part-time study
- Courses
- Faculties
- UK students
- EU students
- International Students
- How to apply for your course
- Handy Hints
- Open Events
- Student Recruitment
- Money Matters
- About Us
20 Jan 2009 15:14:39
Businesses across the region are being given the opportunity to apply for ‘Innovation Vouchers’ worth up to £3,000.
The new East of England Development Agency (EEDA) scheme is designed to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises to work with East of England universities, such as the University of Bedfordshire, by tapping into their expertise to boost innovation and business improvement.
According to the University’s Innovation Director, Dr Abdul Al-Jibouri, a key priority for the University is to help local companies through the challenges of the current economic downturn. He said: “This is an excellent scheme and we are very supportive of its aims. My involvement in similar schemes means I can provide help and guidance to companies to increase their chances of receiving a voucher.”
The voucher scheme, based on the government’s ‘Innovation Nation’ initiative, will allow businesses to purchase specialist consultancy for up to one week through a local university. The consultancy will focus on investigating and resolving a particular business issue. Businesses in Bedfordshire can access a number of experienced business academics, who are experts in their fields, through the University’s Knowledge Hub.
All small and medium enterprises operating in the East of England are eligible to apply for an Innovation Voucher providing they employ fewer than 250 people and have an annual turnover of less than £35 million.
Applications must be submitted by 5pm on 2 February 2009. For information on how to apply and more on eligibility and assessment criteria, visit www.eeda.org.uk
For further business advice and support, contact Dr. Abdul Al-Jibouri on 01582 743941/434222 or by email at abdul.al-jibouri@beds.ac.uk
Latest news» 2009» January» £3,000 vouchers available to Bedfordshire businesses
