12 Staffordshire businesses issued fully-funded innovation grants totalling £50k in first 3 months of PIPP programme – and funds are still up for grabs – Staffordshire Chambers

No fewer than 12 Staffordshire businesses have benefitted from grant funding ranging from £1,000 – £5,000 during the first three months of the Promoting Innovation Pathways programme (PIPP) – and more funds remain up for grabs. PIPP, overseen by Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, is helping to foster innovation across Stoke-on-Trent by providing grant funding to support new products, processes and services. The grants, which are fully-funded , are available to businesses under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). Sam Thorne, Innovation Project Manager at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “We have had a fantastic reaction to the programme since it launched earlier in the year. “So far we have worked with SMEs of all sizes, from businesses with a couple of staff members, up to firms with hundreds of employees. “Primarily focusing on digital and manufacturing innovation, the grants disbursed thus far have underwritten an array of groundbreaking projects. These initiatives range from the development of cutting-edge software, including AI-centric applications, to pioneering advancements in manufacturing techniques, such as enhancements to 3D printing methodologies. “With grants ranging from £1,000 to £5,000, PIPP is helping to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of innovation.” Tom Nadin, Head of Projects and Business Services, has urged businesses with an interest in innovation to get in touch. He said: “Grant funding is still available for businesses looking to drive new innovative processes. “The application process is fast and free, and could help your business drive forward with a new project of service.” If your business is interested in innovation funding through PIPP, please email [email protected]