A new "game changing" programme is launching in Bolton offering grants up of up to £1.6M for businesses operating in the latest technology sectors.
The Innovation Navigator scheme will aim to give advice and support to business across the borough to help them bring new ideas to the market.
Launched by the Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub the scheme will run until March 2025.
Hub head of innovation Yvonne Grady said: “This is a fantastic programme which will benefit key businesses in the artificial intelligence, data and advanced computing, diagnostics, genomics and sustainable advanced material sectors across Bolton.
“Innovation Navigator aims to springboard technological change so we can bring new products and services to the market at a faster pace which will enable businesses across the area to take full advantage of the emerging technologies at their fingertips.
“This work is set to be a game-changer for them and we believe it will bring benefits to local residents too.”
The Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub is backed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and part funded by the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The scheme will work by deploying a “local innovation connector” in Bolton who will identify businesses that may be suitable to take part.
The connector will go to networking events and contact businesses which, once identified, will receive specialised support.
This support will come from an experienced commercialisation specialist who will help take companies’ plans forward.
Support could also include academic knowledge from the University of Bolton, Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of Salford and the University of Manchester.
Businesses will also be able to access support from local government, research technology organisations and the private sector.
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In Bolton, this will also mean access to financing from the £1.6M Innovation Grant Fund.
Bolton local innovation connector Oliver Witty said: “I'm enthusiastic about the opportunity to collaborate with cutting-edge companies in search of knowledge exchange and specialised commercialisation assistance.
“There are world-class innovation assets close to home and I’m here to make sure that pioneering Bolton businesses can benefit from them.
“I’m really approachable, so please do get in touch.”
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