With the closure of East Midlands Development Agency (emda) next
year and changes to the public funding landscape, the Sustainable
Construction iNet (iNet) has secured £1m worth of support
from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is looking
for universities, businesses and public sector organisations to
join forces and explore how it can unlock this significant fund for
the region before it may be lost.
The iNet has helped more than 70 businesses in the East Midlands
with targeted grant funding and support and it is now calling for
partners who can match-fund sustainable innovation projects that
will help achieve growth and provide employment opportunities the
East Midlands.
The iNet is looking to continue to provide one-to-one, tailored
advice and hands-on guidance to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
within the construction sector, focusing on the low carbon and
sustainability agenda. The iNet will also facilitate contacts via
an extensive professional network including Higher Education
Institutions, business specialists and leaders in the construction
sector.
John Liddle, iNet director said: "We want to continue to build
on the success that the iNet has already delivered for the East
Midlands working with businesses and the region's Universities.
This is a fantastic opportunity for organisations to work with us
to lever additional funds that will directly benefit local
businesses, helping to increase jobs and boost the economy and
construction sector. To continue its support and guidance to SMEs,
the iNet requires this additional funding to match the £1m
ERDF funds which we have already secured."
The Sustainable Construction iNet operates throughout the whole
of the East Midlands with an innovation team under the leadership
of iNet Director, John Liddle. For further information, please
contact Richard Adlington at the iNet on 01327 304800.