The Isle of Wight Growth Catalyst is a programme designed to support Island businesses in exporting, innovation, and collaboration with universities.

Have you ever considered Innovate UK funding, exporting or partnering with a university?

If so, this fully-funded programme is designed for you.

Your organisation can choose from three tailored pathways: exporting, innovation, and university partnerships. Each pathway includes hands-on workshops to apply directly to your business, plus several hours of personalised, one-on-one guidance from industry experts.

Complimentary places are limited, so register now to learn more and start the application process.

Apply

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

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Who is this programme for?

  • Organisations seeking Innovate UK funding support
  • Isle of Wight businesses aiming to expand through exporting
  • 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: Exporting & New Markets

The new markets and exports programme provides Isle of Wight businesses with practical guidance and support for those considering exporting or selling into new markets. We will provide advice, resources, tools, and contacts, enabling you to embark on this journey with focus and confidence.

  • Workshop

By the end of the workshops, you’ll:

  • Understand how to identify suitable new markets for your business
  • Gain practical advice and strategies for starting or expanding exports
  • Learn how to navigate international trade regulations and market demands
  • Mentoring

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

  • Develop a focused export strategy with expert insights
  • Access valuable contacts and potential partnerships to support your export efforts
  • Receive one-on-one mentoring to refine your market research and selection process
  • Be better prepared to navigate international markets

Pathway 3: 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