The Somerset Innovation Network (SI-Net) is more than just business support; it’s a targeted programme aimed at strengthening collaborative relationships between the region’s most forward-thinking businesses – driving growth, innovation and prosperity along the way.
SI-Net is a fully-funded programme for businesses in Somerset that seek to grow, develop, and collaborate with other innovative companies.
Funded through the European Regional Development Fund and Somerset Council, the programme is open to businesses in the Low Carbon, Digital, Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace sectors – all at no cost to them!
Bringing together three innovation centres in Somerset, SI-Net makes support easier to access in the region, leaning on the expertise and outreach of specialist Business Advisors and delivery partners to offer businesses a variety of tailored support, workshops and networking opportunities.
How does it work?
Through the network, businesses receive 12 hours of tailored support, including a 5-step diagnostic and solution service that signposts them to the best support to help them thrive.
Businesses will be taken through:
1. Discovery Event
A free and impartial review of your business, which will highlight your next steps and areas of focus.
2. Solution Workshops
Free, unrestricted access to our live, interactive and informative workshops on a wide array of business topics to help support your business.
3. Collaboration Support
Agree and develop the top-level objectives, set scope, timelines, and mutually beneficial exploitation against scope.
4. Growth Plan
Develop and implement a growth strategy to ensure the right direction for your business. Working to be proactive and not reactive to business demands.
5. Programme Delivery
Our team of dedicated Innovation Specialists and Advisors are able to employ their knowledge and expertise to help your business succeed.
Should my business join the SI-Net?
Through the programme, businesses can access fully-funded 1-2-1 support with Business Advisors and industry specialists, identifying areas of focus to develop clear and actionable plans. The 1-2-1 diagnostic works to align your challenges, identify key technologies, signpost funding opportunities and potential collaborators, and establish essential outcomes.
In addition, businesses are welcome to join a variety of informative workshops on key business topics, led by internal and external specialists in each sector. SI-Net workshops are both online and in-person, covering all the areas that are important to growth-led businesses in the region.
The programme offers opportunities to collaborate and network with other innovative businesses at various events, encouraging long-lasting partnerships, building relationships and fostering growth within and between each sector – strengthening the collective innovative ambitions of the wider Somerset region.
Is my business eligible?
To apply for the SI-Net programme, your business must:
- Be based in Somerset (excluding North Somerset and Bath and North East Somerset) or Dorset (if in the Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace sector)
- Have fewer than 250 employees
- Have a turnover of less than £43 million
- Be in the Low Carbon, Digital or Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace sectors (or transitioning towards these sectors – or part of the supply chain for these sectors)
- Be forward-thinking, innovative and have ambitions to develop, connect and grow
How can I apply?
To apply to access the fully-funded support available as part of the programme, visit this webpage for more information.
You can register your interest using this contact form and a member of the team will be in touch.
