By Dr Pam Waddell, Director of Birmingham Science City
There is less than one month to go until Venturefest West Midlands (http://www.venturefestwm.co.uk/) arrives back for the third year at the NEC in Birmingham on 27th June. Entrepreneurs, investors and innovators will meet, engage and exchange ideas for co-operation and collaboration, particularly in the fields of science and emerging technologies, at this free one-day event.
There is something for everybody across the West Midlands innovation community. Venturefest West Midlands is the perfect event if you are starting out with a new innovative business idea, if you want to take your business to the next level, if you are an investor looking for new opportunities of if you are seeking to work with or support innovative businesses.
With the aim of promoting business growth through innovation, the programme is packed full of inspiration, insights, advise and ample opportunities to meet and connect with potential investors, funders, customers, collaborators, business partners and support organisations.
We are particularly delighted to announce our two keynote speakers this year. The new Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, will start the day off telling about his vision for the critical role of innovation in driving up productivity and transforming public services in the West Midlands. In the afternoon, we will hear the inspirational story of Phil Cleary’s idea that was turned into a profitable, multi-million pound international business, SmartWater Technology Limited.
Once again, Pitchfest (http://www.venturefestwm.co.uk/pitchfest) runs throughout the day, with local innovative businesses boosting their profile in front of a national audience of investors looking for the best new opportunities. Alongside this there will be lively debates and issue-led workshops. Over 30 speakers will discuss topics such as supply chain and demand-led innovation, finance for start-ups and scale ups, business journeys in different sectors, support and engagement opportunities with Catapults and Transport for West Midlands, and the implications of the West Midlands Science and Innovation Audit on local strategy and actions.
Throughout the day there is a Pitchfest innovation showcase and an exhibition including universities, funders, support bodies and more, as well as spaces to meet and talk. Venturefest is a highly valued regional event, led by Birmingham Science City, working with Innovate UK, business, universities, Catapult Centres, science parks, business support and professional services. We will all be there and look forward to listening, learning, meeting and sharing in a great day of connecting across the West Midlands innovative business community.
If you are involved in innovation, science, creativity and entrepreneurship, we invite you to join us at this fascinating free event – register now at http://www.venturefestwm.co.uk/registration
Slingshot