Published: Monday, 14th August 2023
Businesses in Cannock Chase District are being supported to Go Digital and transition to Net Zero under new government-funded projects to be delivered by Staffordshire University.
The fully funded Go Digital Accelerator project will support 16 SMEs who wish to adopt digital technologies or develop new digital products and services.
The 16-week project will involve an Innovation Advisor and Innovation Consultant – usually a trained student or graduate – who will tailor their support to meet bespoke business needs.
Meanwhile the Net Zero Pathfinder will provide 20 SMEs with the opportunity to work on a Net Zero plan to assist them in achieving the Net Zero targets set by the UK government.
Both projects are being made possible thanks to funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) – a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda which aims to support high quality skills training and productivity growth.
Cannock Chase Council’s Deputy Leader and Regeneration and High Streets Portfolio Leader, Councillor Josh Newbury said: "Supporting a thriving SME sector is critical to the success of our local economy and so the council is delighted this important funding has been secured and will be managed by partners with a good track record of delivering practical support in what are key growth areas.”
Staffordshire University Vice-Chancellor Professor Martin Jones said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with the council and South Staffordshire College on the delivery of these projects which aim to boost innovation and growth with a view to creating new high-level jobs.”
Staffordshire University Executive Director of Business Engagement, Marek Hornak, added: “The Go Digital project will provide SMEs with access to demonstrator facilities in our Innovation Enterprise Zone. This builds on the need for businesses to grow through innovation and will help our SMEs to enter new and emerging markets.
“The Net Zero Pathfinder supports decarbonisation and improving the natural environment at the same time as growing the regional economy.”
For more information on how to apply, interested parties are encouraged to contact Staffordshire University’s Business Engagement team on 0800 169 2148.
Notes to editors
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
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