Newark has always been a town that builds things. From our historic manufacturing roots to our future as a hub for sustainable technology, we are a community that knows how to innovate. This month, that potential just got a £1.2 million boost.
The newly launched Innovation Accelerator Fund is a major investment from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). Its goal? To turn “lab-grown” ideas into real-world business success in two sectors where Newark is already punching above its weight: Clean Energy and Advanced Manufacturing.
Why Newark Businesses Should Be First in Line
This isn’t just a fund for “big city” firms in Nottingham or Derby. It’s designed to bridge the gap between our world-leading regional universities and the hardworking businesses right here in Newark and Sherwood.
For NBC members, this is a golden opportunity to:
- De-risk Your Innovation: Whether you have a “crazy” idea for a more efficient manufacturing process or a new way to store clean energy, this fund offers support for early-stage feasibility and advanced demonstrator projects.
- Access Academic Power: The fund facilitates direct collaboration with the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent, and Derby—giving you access to PhD-level thinking for your local business challenges.
- Create High-Value Jobs: By securing this funding, Newark businesses can lead the way in creating the “Green Collar” jobs of the future, keeping our talent local.
A Natural Fit for the NBC Spirit
We see this innovative mindset every day in our club. Take our Patron, Gusto Group, for example—they are already pioneers in sustainable building and eco-conscious workspaces like Gusto House. This new fund is designed to help more Newark firms follow that lead, proving that “Green Growth” isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a competitive advantage.
And let’s face it—if we can innovate our way toward world-class green technologies, surely we can find a high-tech solution for those persistent potholes on the Great North Road? We can only hope!
How to Get Your Slice of the Pie
The fund is looking for projects that drive inward investment and boost our regional productivity. At Newark Business Club, we want to see as much of that £1.2 million as possible staying right here in our town.
Not sure if your project fits? That’s exactly why you should be at our next meeting. We have the stakeholders, the council voices, and the fellow entrepreneurs in the room who can help you navigate these applications and find the right partners.
Don’t let this funding pass Newark by. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and grow.
👉 [Register Your Interest in the Fund Here] 👉 [Book Your Place for the Next NBC Meeting Here]
