University News Last updated 16 September
Hundreds of local firms are set to benefit from a new and improved business support package from Birmingham City University (BCU).
Hundreds of local firms are set to benefit from a new and improved business support package from Birmingham City University (BCU).
The University has received £775,000 to help companies upskill staff, prototype ideas, collaborate with researchers, and access technology and equipment.
“We’re thrilled to have already supported more than 300 businesses and professionals to develop their skills and adopt new technology through dedicated workshops and training sessions,” said Heike Schuster-James, Head of Partnership Development in Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation at BCU.
“Thanks to this additional funding, BCU will be able to enhance its business support to help local SMEs accelerate their growth and become even more competitive.
“The funding also will create opportunities for BCU researchers to solve real-world business problems through industry partnerships and drive economic growth in the region.”
In 2023, a new £60 million Regional Innovation Fund (RIF) was launched to help UK universities cultivate their research and development initiatives.
UKRI’s Research England has since distributed £48.8 million of that money across 110 universities in England.
BCU used its funding to aid local business by investing in three key areas: STEAMhouse, Centre for Future Homes, and SuperTech WM.
BCU’s STEAMhouse is an award-winning innovation centre that empowers local organisations to develop ideas, skills, and knowledge, by providing the latest technology, kit and equipment, skills development, space hire, consultancy services, and events. RIF funding enabled 42 SMEs and 30 professionals to access free support to make their ideas a reality.
The Centre for Future Homes works with organisations to build social and private housing that meets Government objectives on ‘operational carbon’. The funding enabled the centre to share their insights with over 1,500 home building professionals and industry partners.
Finally, SuperTech WM is a cluster organisation committed to establishing the region as a leader in professional services tech by driving innovation and collaboration. BCU academics have collaborated with SuperTech WM to launch its Technology Roadmap – an actionable plan underpinned by data that will increase economic growth and generate jobs.
“It’s a new era of growth and job opportunities,” said Dr Kifayat Khan, a BCU artificial intelligence expert who supported the roadmap development. “New roles in the region could include technical positions, academia, practitioners, and start-ups that spark further progress.”
“By harnessing the region’s global connections and professional service (proftec) technologies, new digital organisations can thrive while providing accessible services for our communities," added Dr Leo Wang, a specialist in responsible AI and inclusive financial technology at BCU.
Schuster-James said other exciting projects are also on the horizon.
“By connecting our researchers with local innovators and regional universities through the business engagement and support offered at STEAMhouse and SuperTech WM, we’re one step closer to realising our shared goal – boosting business in Birmingham,” she said.
Pictured (left to right): Dr Monica Mateo-Garcia, BCU Senior Lecturer in Sustainable Built Environment; Mike Leonard BCU Visiting Professor; Dr Kifayat Khan, BCU Senior Lecturer in AI and Business Analytics; Heike Schuster-James, BCU Head of Partnership Development in Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation; Clayton Shaw, STEAMhouse Programme Manager