Innovation Wight: Growth Catalyst is a fully funded programme designed to help Isle of Wight businesses grow by innovating. Whether you’re a sole trader, a small company with big ambitions, or an established business ready for your next step, this is your chance to unlock new opportunities and accelerate your growth.

Across a series of practical, down-to-earth workshops and one-to-one mentoring sessions, you’ll explore how innovation can transform your business.

From accessing Innovate UK funding and working effectively with universities, to boosting productivity, strengthening your marketing, and building creative enterprises that thrive. You’ll gain the tools, contacts and confidence to develop new ideas and turn them into action.

Complimentary places are limited, so don’t miss your chance to get expert support from experienced innovation consultants Liz Flint and Colm Watling, right here on the Island. It’s time to innovate, collaborate and grow — and we’re here to help you make it happen.

Apply

Workshops & Events

All sessions (except the university visit) will be held at Building 41.

  • Innovate UK Grants Workshop

Mon 24th Nov, 10:30 – 13:30 (includes lunch)

Get ready to crack the code on securing those sought-after Innovate UK grants. We’ll demystify the process, show you what funders are really looking for, and help you understand how to position your project for success.

  • Productivity in Micro SMEs and Sole Traders

Thurs 27th Nov, 09:30 – 11:30

Wondering how to be more productive and improve your profit margin when it’s just you? We’ll help you rethink how you work, find smarter ways to deliver, and innovate your approach to earn more without burning out.

  • Working with Universities

Thurs 8th Jan, 09:30 – 11:30

Curious about what a university partnership could do for your business? We’ll show you when and how to collaborate, connect you with the right people, and give you the confidence to make those relationships deliver real value.

Followed by a group visit to South Coast University (w/c 16th Feb, date TBC). 

  • Innovation Drop-in Clinics

Weds 26th Nov, 10:00 – 16:00

Got questions about innovation, funding, partnerships or next steps for your business? Book a one-to-one slot with Liz or Colm to talk through your specific challenges and opportunities — no agenda, just tailored support.

  • Working with Marketing Agencies / Marketing for Non-Marketing People

Fri 28th Nov, 10:30 – 13:30 (includes lunch)

Struggling to manage your marketing subcontractor or thinking of doing it yourself? This session will help you understand the essentials, avoid common pitfalls, and confidently take control of your marketing strategy.

  • Business Skills and Innovation in Creative Industries

Fri 9th Jan, 10:30 – 13:30 (includes lunch)

Turning a creative passion into a successful business isn’t easy — but with the right foundations, it’s possible. This workshop will help you plan, position and grow your creative enterprise, and explore how innovation can help you thrive.

Would you like to learn more about the Catalyst before applying? You can book a short video call to discuss this opportunity further.

Book Call

Who is this programme for?

  • Organisations seeking Innovate UK funding support
  • Isle of Wight businesses aiming
    to expand
  • Companies looking to collaborate with universities
  • Businesses exploring new growth opportunities

Pathway 1: Innovation

The Innovation Pathway programme equips Isle of Wight businesses with the tools and guidance needed to develop innovations that meet market demand. We provide expert advice on testing product/market fit, navigating UK innovation funding, and crafting successful Innovate UK applications.

  • Workshop

By the end of the workshops, you’ll:

  • Understand how to test product/market fit to ensure your innovations meet customer needs
  • Learn how to navigate the UK innovation funding landscape
  • Gain insights on constructing a strong Innovate UK application
  • Develop an initial innovation plan tailored to your business
  • Leave with practical strategies to bring your innovations to market successfully
  • Mentoring

If accepted into the mentoring programme, by the end you will:

  • Have a refined innovation plan, developed and iterated with mentor guidance
  • Be prepared to apply for UK innovation funding, including InnovateUK grants
  • Understand how to effectively validate product/market fit for your innovations
  • Receive personalised feedback on your innovation strategies and funding applications
  • Be equipped to drive successful innovation within your business

Pathway 2: Working With Universities

The Working With Universities pathway gives Isle of Wight businesses access to new ideas and the best talent. We do this by giving you the tools, contacts and confidence to work effectively with Universities, and making sure you get real benefit from the collaboration.

  • Workshop

By the end of the workshops, you’ll:

  • Know when to work with a University
  • Know what support local Universities can offer and how to access it
  • Be confident engaging with a University
  • Mentoring

If accepted into the mentoring programme, by the end you will:

  • Have been introduced to the right people at a University who can help you
  • Have built a relationship with that University
  • Have a clearly articulated project which benefits from having a University partner
Apply
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