The Open London project is delivered by Newable on behalf of the Greater London Authority and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The project combines London’s residents, large organisations and innovative SMEs to address socio-economic, health and environmental challenges to improve living standards by aligning resident insights with the needs of local authorities and businesses to tackle pressing issues across London.
It supports 90 London SMEs or social enterprises in scaling their innovations through an intensive Accelerator Programme that provides curated workshops and bespoke support from Innovation Advisers. Successful participants have the opportunity to pitch their solutions for potential funding and collaboration opportunities with organisations supporting the challenges covering key areas in Health and Wellbeing, Social Care, Environment, Energy and Housing.
The below case study showcases the benefits of being involved in The Open London project.
Company Concept: Sustainable solutions for the housing sector
Founded by Alain Alban, Isometric Outcomes creates and develops sustainable products that help tackle climate change and benefit consumers with their simplicity and problem-solving abilities. Using science and technology to facilitate daily tasks, their aim is to reduce their collective carbon emissions and improve the quality of life globally.
The company guides the entire project process, from the inception of an idea to the delivery of a market-ready product. They create products using a people and planet-centred approach, incorporating sustainable design methods to create items that offer customers economic, environmental and social value.
In November 2023, Isometric Outcomes was awarded a place on the Open London Accelerator Programme to help with their journey towards launch for their bathrooms/shower rooms solution. Their energy efficient dehumidifying ventilation system reduces humidity and recovers heat energy.
Alain attended the series of workshops from November to January 2024, in addition he received 1-2-1 support from specialist adviser, Abrar Jawaid.
The company then had the opportunity to pitch before a panel and was one of six winners. They were awarded a grant of £2,500 along with the opportunity to pitch to large organisations and London Borough Councils at a dedicated Meet the Innovator event.
Refining the solution:
The Open London Accelerator Programme and 1-2-1 support helped Alain understand how to undertake certain aspects such as marketing, value proposition and business model development/refinement which also helped to develop his knowledge and skills. Additionally, following his pitch as part of the Meet the Innovator event he was introduced to borough council representatives and is still working with them.
Impact of the Open London Accelerator Programme and Adviser support:
Since attending the programme, Isometric Outcomes have accelerated the journey to market and are at the pilot testing stage. They are testing in real and relevant environments and researching for pilot trial partners. They are approximately 6-12 months from commercial launch.
Isometric Outcomes have quantified the cost and energy savings on offer, and in using their device there is an 18% reduction in energy used and CO2 emissions per shower, equating to an average annual saving of £60 and reduction of 96kg CO2e per household.
Client testimonial:
“The grant was very welcome and has resulted in much needed software that has helped with product/solution refinement. Also, knowledge and skills have been acquired”
The Open London project brings together London residents, large organisations, and innovative London SMEs to solve socio-economic, health and environmental challenges and increase living standards in London.
To find out how we can support your business with launching a new product or service, contact a member of the team at openlondon@newable.co.uk