Newable has recently delivered the Open London project on behalf of the Greater London Authority. This blog highlights the programme’s focus to deliver a pioneering initiative designed to shape a better future for London residents.
The project committed to supporting 90 London-based SMEs or social enterprises, helping them scale their innovations to tackle prominent issues. This was part of the project’s commitment to nurturing local talent and addressing challenges in six key areas: Health and Wellbeing, Social Care, Transport, Environment, Energy and Housing.
The project invited London-based SMEs and social enterprises to propose tailored innovative solutions to challenges identified by the city’s residents. After a rigorous assessment against a set of strategic criteria, chosen enterprises embarked on a four-month intensive Accelerator Programme. This comprehensive package included upskilling workshops and bespoke 1-2-1 support from specialist innovation advisers, aiming towards the development of new or improved products or services for the benefit of London communities.
Successful SMEs had the opportunity to pitch their refined solutions to a panel, with the potential of securing a grant to further develop their proposal and enter into collaboration agreements with London organisations supporting the initiative.
As we reflect on the successful delivery of the Accelerator Programme, we are proud of its achievements:
- 144 applications received
- 90 businesses supported
- 276 hours of 1-2-1 ‘wrap around’ support delivered
- 13 new to market products
- £100k of grants awarded
Following participation in the Accelerator Programme workshops, our clients said:
“Very pleased with the session. I found the information shared very useful and I am already using it in an on-going negotiation with an interested European partner.”
Anthony Karydis, Mativision Ltd
“It’s an event every SME in London must not miss. It provides the opportunity to gain lots of beneficial information that other acceleration programmes do not give. Newable staff support participants and want them to grow in their businesses. They do follow up after the event to ensure participants are encouraged to continue applying what they have learnt in the event.”
Francis Apata Johnson, Ewa London ltd
Our dedicated team of advisers are on hand to help your business grow. Get in touch today to find out how Newable can support you.