Inspired to create a new product or service for the construction market, but don’t know where to start? Join I-Construct for free and they will help you develop your concept into a viable business.
I-Construct has just launched its Enterprise Readiness events programme for innovators and entrepreneurs. This free series will help you get from product or service ideation to business launch. In taking part you will become an I-Construct member. Membership is 100% free, as the programme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund.
The programme starts with an inspiration session, where an industry leader discusses issues the industry is facing. This is followed by a series of information sessions that will include: Creative Problem Solving; Developing Your Vision; Business Planning; Funding; and more. Plus, there are monthly networking opportunities where participants can discuss their ideas and gain support from other I-Construct business members. In all, the programme offers over 12 hours of free support.
The programme will be run twice over the course of 2022, with the first session starting in April. Each information session will be delivered online, while some networking sessions will be hybrid events held online and at the £2.3 million I-Construct Innovation Hub in Essex.
In addition to the Enterprise Readiness events, the I-Construct team regularly hosts talks where experts discuss relevant topics. Members can hear about offsite construction, renewable energy, zero-carbon construction, BIM software, and more.
If this programme is of interest but you are part of an established start-up that’s ready to launch a new product, you may be eligible for support through the I-Construct Market Readiness programme, run with the Building Research Establishment (BRE).
The I-Construct programme is managed by the Haven Gateway Partnership. Project partners include Braintree District Council, BRE (Building Research Establishment), Colchester Institute, and Daedalus Environmental. The Enterprise Readiness Programme is also supported by several major employers in the construction sector including Willmott Dixon and Countryside Properties and opens on 7th April with a keynote session by Richard Davidson, director at Willmott Dixon, looking at the challenges facing the industry and the opportunities they create.
Anita Thornberry, executive director of the Haven Gateway Partnership says:
“The need for innovation in the construction sector is significant and we know there are many businesses out there with concepts that are relevant to the industry. This programme provides, for free, help in starting up a business as well as access to market plus membership to a construction network that is gaining real traction with the sector. There is nothing for young businesses to lose and everything to gain by participating in this programme.”
Richard Davidson commented that:
“It is really important for all businesses to network and share best practices as we move forward into a more sustainable future, at Willmott Dixon we believe the built environment sector has so many great reasons to be positive,”
To find out if you or your business are eligible contact the team. Details can be found here.