The West Midlands has a proud heritage in leading the way in technology and new ideas, which Business Growth West Midlands is continuing with our support for the local economy.

What do we mean by innovation?

Innovation in business is the implementation of new ideas or methods that result in the introduction of new goods or services, or improvements to existing ones. 

It does not have to involve a major breakthrough in technology. It can be as simple as upgrading a customer service procedure, adding a new channel to your marketing strategy or enhancing an existing product. 

Innovation is not just for tech and manufacturing companies either. It is important for all businesses, helping you stay relevant, adapt to change and stand out in the market. 

How Business Growth West Midlands helps businesses innovate 

There are currently more than 100 free or fully funded support programmes for businesses in the West Midlands, helping with everything from investment readiness to decarbonisation. 

Trying to find the right opportunities for you and your business can feel overwhelming. Our Business Advisers can help you find the right programmes and funding to help you innovate and grow. They can also support you with business planning, recruitment and skills to get your business where it needs to be to achieve your ambitions.

Examples of programmes set up to help businesses innovate include: 
•    Made Smarter: a programme providing advice to manufacturing businesses on how to switch to advanced and automated technologies and improve digital skills
•    Minerva Business Angels: practical advice for tech/innovative startups on how to find the right funding and support 
•    AI Adoption Accelerator: a free programme to equip businesses with knowledge to transform their organisation with AI
•    Innovate UK Business Growth: a programme to help established small to medium sized businesses make step changes towards scale

Check out more of the programmes available to support businesses with innovation here or contact us for tailored advice on what's right for you.

Innovation case study: Energym 

Energym, founded by CEO Will Flint in 2017, is dedicated to designing and developing electricity-generating exercise equipment. 
The business has transitioned from a small startup to a leader in sustainable exercise equipment thanks to its innovative approach and proactive utilisation of business support resources. 
Energym received grant funding and was part of the West Midlands Global Growth Programme, receiving advice from trade and investment experts.

Will Broad, Business Growth West Midlands specialist Business Adviser on Low Carbon/Net Zero Innovation said:

“Business Growth West Midlands has been delighted to support Energym on their journey in recent years. Through one-to-one support and expert guidance, Energym has successfully secured grant funding from the Clean Growth Grant in 2021, and the UKSPF West Midlands Grant Programme in 2024. Energym has benefited from direct account management and sustainability support, as well as participating in expert-led online workshops focused on developing sustainable supply chains.”

Read more about Energym.

Free support from Innovation Hubs across the West Midlands

Small businesses across the West Midlands can access free support for adopting technologies from Innovation Hubs in Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry and Warwickshire. These hubs are designed to help SMEs boost innovation, upskill staff and overcome growth challenges. 

Each hub is run by a leading local college, offering SMEs access to expert guidance and cutting-edge facilities. The focus is on key growth areas like digital technology, advanced manufacturing, green technologies, and cybersecurity. 

Find out more about the Innovation Hubs and numerous other opportunities across the region for businesses in all sectors; contact us today and grow your business with free support from our Business Advisers.