Two Science and Innovation Audits (SIAs) are now underway that incorporate the SELEP geography. Innovation South and East of England consortiums have both received Government backing to take part in the second wave of audits, which will conclude in May 2017.
A survey of cutting-edge innovation
Science & Innovation audits are a ‘deep dive’ survey of cutting-edge innovation taking place in industry and the public sector, and are being conducted to better inform central Government of regional strengths for potential future funding streams, and to assist with foreign direct investment.
Innovation South and East of England comprise businesses, universities, and local enterprise partnerships that, collectively, have selected specific areas of focus for their audits.
Innovation South will identify innovation strengths in Digital Enabling Technologies, and examine their potential influence on business innovation and growth in four of the region’s key sectors: Connected digital systems, services & products, Advanced engineering, Marine and maritime, and Bioscience.
East of England will focus on Life Sciences (led by Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst), Agritech (led by Rothamsted Research), Advanced Engineering and Materials including advanced manufacturing (led by TWI Ltd), and ICT including digital/creative technologies (led by BT plc), with Cleantech as a cross-cutting theme.
Both consortiums are seeking evidence from businesses, universities, research institutes and other expert stakeholders, relevant to their focus areas, to inform the audits. This will include data, reports, case studies or insights, knowledge and experience. Workshops and meetings are expected to take place during March and April to facilitate a deep dive into the regions’ evidence on existing strengths and clusters, and to identify potential for driving new growth opportunities within the key sectors.