The new market-readiness scheme offers an opportunity for SMEs to work with experts from BRE. Businesses will be provided confidential and independent technical advice that draws on BRE’s 100-year track-record. They will get nine hours of support that includes: an assessment of where the offering sits in the marketplace; creation of a business development roadmap showing what needs to be addressed before launch; introductions to relevant people, networks and organisations to help them progress; and, support from the I-Construct network to launch the offering.
The scheme is suitable for start-ups in their first year of operation, and established SMEs with new-to-market products at pre-launch or recently launched stage, working in construction and the built environment. Applications will be considered from businesses that are bringing existing products and services to new markets.
There are no fees for the market-readiness scheme as I-Construct, which is led by the Haven Gateway Partnership, is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Dr Ed Suttie from BRE Strategic Advisory said: “Our market readiness support programme offers a one-off business development boost for 20 enterprising businesses with new to market products or services. We’re delighted to be empowering British SMEs in the construction sector and to help them bring exciting innovations and services to the industry through our dedicated support programme that is only available via I-Construct.”
Anita Thornberry, executive director of the Haven Gateway Partnership, said: “With so much investment planned in construction, there are major opportunities for SMEs to use innovation and new technologies to compete. I-Construct gives practical support to companies as they develop and implement their innovation plans and through our network, we will help them build links with people who can help them achieve their ambitions.”
I-Construct is led by the Haven Gateway Partnership and delivered with support from project partners Braintree District Council, BRE, Colchester Institute and Daedalus Environmental. It is part-funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), with match funding for the Innovation Hub provided by Braintree District Council.
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