Transport iNet, which is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund Programme, has held an event at the newly opened Knowledge Transfer Centre at Sheffield University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) to encourage regional SMEs to grow their business through innovation.
The aim of the day, held on Thursday 13th September, was to promote the expertise and support offered by Transport iNet and the AMRC. The event gave SMEs from the East Midlands the opportunity to hear the experiences of other companies who have benefitted from working with the AMRC and Transport iNet. They also had time to network and discuss their individual innovation needs.
Speakers included Paul Goodwin, Research and Development Metallurgist at Laser Cladding Ltd. The Stourbridge based company was involved in a £240,000 collaborative R&D project with Nottingham University, funded by Transport iNet. Sheffield based companies Tinsley Bridge Ltd, a manufacturer of suspension components and Magtec Ltd, the UK’s largest manufacturer of hybrid and electric drive systems for commercial vehicles, also led a discussion.
The talks were followed by a tour of the AMRC with Denzil Lawrence, Regional Business Development Manager for the Centre which highlighted the available facilities and emphasised the role that the centre can play for businesses throughout the supply chain.
Georgette Hall, Transport iNet innovation advisor, said:
“This event has given companies in the East Midlands the chance to hear the experiences of those who’ve successfully made innovative business ideas a reality. We were thrilled that the SMEs responded so well to everything they heard and that we received feedback describing the day as “first rate”. Networking opportunities are vital for encouraging business growth which will in turn revitalise the local economy.”
