Case Studies

AI Adoption Accelerator Programme

SMEs recognise the importance of technology, yet low investment levels risk leaving them behind competitors who adopt AI for greater efficiency and innovation.

This initiative supports AI adoption through tailored pilots and strategic guidance, driving digital growth and competitiveness across the West Midlands.

ASSIST

Did you know that the West Midlands has a strong number of lower-tier aerospace manufacturers? Yet in the last decade, 94% have received no R&D funding from the UK's national aerospace innovation ecosystem. That's where ASSIST comes in.

ASSIST (Aerospace Suppliers Innovation Support Trial) is a West Midlands Innovation Programme project which helped introduce the small aerospace manufacturers in our region to national funding streams, research and development and industry partners to scale their innovation potential leading to more jobs for skilled workers.

Last Mile Logistics

From suppliers to manufacturers to the public. These Low-Zero Emission Vehicles (also known as LZEVs) show how clean transport can power a more sustainable supply chain — all developed and tested right here in our region.

Last Mile Logistics is a collaboration between Transport for West Midlands and Warwick Manufacturing Group. Mark Urbanowski (WMG) and Katie Miller-White (Transport for West Midlands) explain how they've worked together to reduce emissions and reimagine last-mile delivery with a strong focus on sustainability.

Challenge-Led Innovation Collective (CLIC4WM)

Challenge-led innovation is gaining momentum in the West Midlands, but many sectors need guidance and support needed to engage effectively.

Led by STEAMhouse, CLIC4WM aims to unite regional expertise, expand innovation into new areas, and attract investment. Building a bold, collaborative ecosystem where businesses across all sectors can solve real-world challenges and thrive.

Birmingham County Football Association sought to develop a sustainable method reducing the use of single-use ice packs which has seen support from local professional clubs in the region, UEFA and the English Football League.

Developing Future Sustainability Leadership

Manufacturing is evolving rapidly with digital technologies and sustainability goals, while facing challenges like workforce shortages, regulatory changes, and stagnant productivity.

This environment demands strong leadership to drive innovation and guide teams through change. Developing Future Sustainability Leadership programme addresses this by developing leadership skills through targeted training and mentored projects. It demonstrates real-world impact through case studies, supporting future funding and helping businesses invest in effective leadership development.

Kickstart for Health

Early-stage health and med tech innovators in the West Midlands often lack the support needed to turn ideas into impact, Kickstart for Health bridges that gap. Nurturing bold, challenge-led concepts, unlocking cross-sector potential, and building a strong pipeline of future-ready businesses that can transform healthcare and thrive in the market.

SuperTech Seeds Accelerator

The West Midlands has untapped potential among early-stage founders, but outdated incubator models and limited funding are holding them back.

SuperTech Seeds reimagines start-up support, empowering diverse innovators with smarter tools, unlocking private investment, and building a sustainable ecosystem where bold ideas can thrive and scale.

Venturefest Mobile Hub

The Venturefest Mobile Hubs are a series of dynamic, community-driven events designed to energise businesses across the West Midlands.

By connecting entrepreneurs, universities, and business support organisations, these hubs foster collaboration around entrepreneurship, innovation culture, and business growth. Attendees gain valuable insights from experienced panellists, explore funding opportunities, and build meaningful connections that help turn bold ideas into thriving ventures.

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