The event
On Wednesday, 24 September, the Innovation Alliance for the West Midlands brought together local businesses, experts, and successful applicants to explore how SMEs can access European innovation funding through Horizon Europe. Hosted at Trowers & Hamlins in Birmingham and sponsored by Create Central and West Midlands Combined Authority, the event gave attendees a practical insight into how to navigate funding calls, build winning consortia, and unlock the kinds of international opportunities that can transform ambitious ideas into fully resourced projects.
Why European funding matters for West Midlands SMEs
For many SMEs, the prospect of engaging with Horizon Europe can feel daunting. The process of identifying the right call, pulling together a consortium, finding the right consortium of international partners, and preparing a competitive application requires time, knowledge, and confidence. Yet the potential rewards can be transformational: grants covering up to 100% of project costs, with a portion of funds paid upfront, can provide the stability to scale innovation far beyond what is possible through domestic support alone.
Insights from the experts
The programme began with an overview from Perry Guess, Horizon Europe UK National Contact Point at Innovate UK, who explained how the funding structure works, how SMEs can find the right opportunities, and why international collaboration is key. His guidance helped demystify the mechanics of Horizon Europe and showed attendees where to begin.
This was followed by Olcay Yilmaz DAMAR, Chairman of the Board at Kollestee UK Global, who drew on his experience as both a successful applicant and project assessor for the European Commission. He shared practical advice on finding partners, shaping strong proposals, and avoiding common pitfalls – providing SMEs with a clear roadmap to a more competitive application.
Real experiences from West Midlands SMEs
The SME panel, chaired by Jim Sims of the West Midlands Combined Authority, brought these challenges and opportunities to life.
Co-cordinating €10m European project as an SME
Narinder Bains from INEUVO Ltd shared their experience co-cordinating the €10m UPSTREAM project, tackling microplastics in rivers with partners across Europe. The challenge of coordinating 22 partners, managing complex agreements, and meeting EU expectations was significant. Yet, the project not only delivered long-term funding but also positioned the company as a co-coordinator of a major European initiative – something that would have been unachievable without Horizon Europe.
Horizon Europe projects are not always immediately financially profitable
Peter Laybourn Esq OBE from International Synergies Ltd (ISL) reflected on their leadership role in H4C ECOP, which is helping to establish a Europe-wide community of practice for circularity hubs. SMEs like ISL often have to juggle the resource intensity of proposal writing alongside the demands of day-to-day business. Horizon Europe projects are not always immediately financially profitable, but once secured, they provide long-term benefits: enhanced credibility, expanded networks, and greater influence in shaping European approaches to sustainability.
European Horizon funding for a creative business
Iris Bertz from Bertz Associates spoke about their involvement in the Hydrogen Academy, focusing on building school networks and developing new educational resources. For smaller consultancies, particularly not-for-profits, the challenge often lies in navigating reporting requirements and establishing their role within a large-scale project. However, the benefits are significant: increased visibility on a European stage, the opportunity to creatively influence technological industries, and the ability to build meaningful bridges between arts and science networks.
Opportunities ahead
The message was clear: while Horizon Europe can be complex, the opportunities for SMEs in the West Midlands are substantial but not always immediate. Successful applicants gain not only funding but access to new markets, collaborative networks, and influence over European priorities.
As the UK re-engages fully with European programmes, now is the moment for West Midlands SMEs to step forward. With support available through Innovate UK, the Innovation Alliance, and experienced peers across the region, businesses do not have to navigate the process alone.
For SMEs with bold ideas and the drive to collaborate internationally, Horizon Europe is not just a funding opportunity – it is a gateway to recognition at the highest level.
Are you looking for opportunities to connect or support with your innovative projects? Fill out this form, and we’ll see how we can help – https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=w0u-pUgsdkSLpYJ2SajP2NBWhHQRal5CnnQ3djIjA2hURExNMks2TTlGUlZYSVVFTUJEUjFSV0RNOS4u
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