Innovation Explored at SERC Business Event

Innovation was in the air at the Ivanhoe Hotel in Carryduff on Tuesday 23 January, as representatives from a range of businesses gathered to hear how South Eastern Regional College (SERC) can help them to realise their ambitions.    

SERC’s Business Services team hosted a showcasing and information event, which was designed to raise awareness of the innovation support available through the College and other programmes. The event was particularly aimed at local SMEs who might be exploring innovation for the first time. It was supported by Connected, the government programme which promotes relationships between industry and education bodies.   

The guests heard directly from past clients about their innovation projects, as well as from representatives of key innovation programmes – Innovate Us, Innovation Vouchers, Innovation Boost, and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP).    There was also the opportunity to talk one-to-one with a SERC Business Development Manager, to discuss guests’ individual innovation needs and to get advice on the right pathway or programme to help progress their business.   

Senior Skills and Innovation Manager at SERC, Emma Finney, said the guests made the most of the event:   “The response was very enthusiastic, and we had enquiries as to how to get started on a project as soon as possible. There were people there who have previously taken courses at SERC and who are keen to continue learning with us.  In our team, we pride ourselves on our expertise, our industry experience, our flexibility and our responsiveness, all of which ensure that we can provide support precisely when and where it suits your business. Anyone who couldn’t join us at our event can explore the full range of support we offer via our website.”

SERC is dedicated to providing targeted business innovation support as part of the colleges’ commitment to sustainable local economic growth. SERC’s expertise covers diverse sectors, including green technologies, construction, digital and creative technologies, engineering and manufacturing, lean manufacturing, food innovation, and tourism development.  

You can read more here about innovation support which can be accessed through SERC.

In the picture (left to right): James Robinson (SERC);Ian Wilkinson (InvestNI); Tom Fairbairn (EcoDepo); Kevin O'Reilly(InnovateUs); Emma Finney (SERC); Robbie Quinn (Innovation Boost); Joel Ferguson (KTP); and Karen McClure (SERC)