Small Business Innovation Support Framework Agreement - AWARD

The Centre for Enterprise has been awarded funding for a substantial European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) project to support innovation within small and medium sized businesses in Cheshire and Warrington.).

From this tender process, we intend to create a framework of suppliers to deliver the required outputs of the contract. We anticipate appointing eight individual suppliers onto the framework, whose services will be called upon where required.

Being successfully appointed onto the framework does not guarantee a pre-determined volume of engagements throughout the contract duration. All sessions will be centred on the topic of Business Innovation; however, the content and delivery of sessions will be developed and tailored to meet the requirements of a particular cohort. Once the cohorts has been placed onto the programme, suppliers will be reviewed, and based on their specialisms, the most suitably matched supplier will be appointed to deliver the session.

Should you be successful and be awarded a place on the framework, you may be asked to provide sessions at various locations throughout Cheshire and Warrington, and the Crewe Campus of Manchester Metropolitan University (Cheshire).

Smart Cheshire

The Smart Cheshire Programme will specifically target SME businesses in Cheshire and Warrington, with the overarching aim of supporting c150 companies exhibiting potential to innovate. These companies will comprise existing small businesses with a minimum of four employees who have traded for a minimum of 12 months. Businesses / individuals will undergo a 4-month structured programme of expert advice, workshops, peer-to-peer support and individual coaching sessions. Success will be measured through a range of indicators including job creation, and development of novel products and processes both within the company and onto the market.

Key Programme Elements:

o The Innovation Programme is focused on those companies with potential / desire to innovate o The programme is focused on development of business innovation, rather than a focus on individual leadership skills. o This is a cohort-based programme, utilising the group's experiences and business acumen to create trusted peer-to-peer networks o It is underpinned by academic research and practical expertise in facilitating and teaching innovation within small firms