A new and innovative partnership between The Landing and IN4.0 promises to revolutionise the manufacturing landscape in the North West.
Over the next two years, this collaboration will focus on supporting industrial SMEs and start-ups, helping them to harness disruptive technologies for business growth.
New Accelerator Programme: Access
The launch of a brand-new accelerator programme named ‘Access’ marks a significant step for manufacturing businesses in the North West. This initiative aims to assist these enterprises in starting, scaling, and succeeding within the realm of Industry 4.0. The programme is scheduled to be unveiled at an event held at BAE Systems Academy near Preston.
Access will be headquartered at The Landing, which will also serve as the new home for the IN4.0 Group. With backing from BAE Systems and NatWest, the programme is set to offer crucial support for regional businesses through innovative workshops and disruptive leadership events.
Regional Hubs and International Collaboration
The Access programme will be accessible throughout the region via three hubs: The Landing in Salford, Sensor City in Liverpool, and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) in Preston. This expansive reach ensures that businesses across the North West can benefit from the initiative.
An additional highlight of the programme is its international cohort, which will allow UK-based SMEs to form overseas partnerships and tap into new investment opportunities. This international collaboration underscores the programme’s potential for driving growth and innovation on a global scale.
Supporting Digital Entrepreneurs through DEVA Network
The IN4.0 Group also plans to run its IN4.0 Education Community Interest Company (CIC) from The Landing.
The DEVA Network, operated by the Social Enterprise, is designed to cultivate the next generation of digital entrepreneurs. The initiative will enable young individuals in local schools and colleges to harness digital technologies constructively.
Many DEVA Mentors will be entrepreneurs and creatives based at The Landing. These mentors will play a pivotal role in guiding and empowering young talent, ultimately fostering a workforce integral to the digital and creative industries.
Statements from Key Leaders
Paul Billington, Managing Director at The Landing, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are really excited about this partnership with IN4.0 as it will support and influence an industry which is at the heart of our heritage in the North West, marrying 21st century digital innovation with the British manufacturing industry.”
Billington highlighted the synergy between The Landing’s high-tech testing labs and IN4.0’s regional reach and digital manufacturing expertise. He emphasised the potential impact on the region’s manufacturing landscape.
Mo Isap, CEO of IN4.0 PLC, echoed this excitement, noting that The Landing’s status as the premier digital technology hub and its collaborative leadership were key factors.
Potential Impact on North West Manufacturing
The collaboration between The Landing and IN4.0 is expected to have a substantial impact on the North West’s manufacturing sector. By leveraging advanced digital technologies, the initiative aims to accelerate growth and innovation in the industry.
This partnership will provide manufacturing start-ups and scale-ups with essential resources such as innovation, talent, and capital. It represents a significant opportunity for the region to remain competitive in the evolving industrial landscape.
Future Prospects and Growth
The partnership between The Landing and IN4.0 is poised to bring long-term benefits to the North West’s manufacturing industry. With continuous investment in digital innovation and collaborative efforts, the region is set to experience sustained growth.
The establishment of these programmes and initiatives signals a bright future for the region, with opportunities for international expansion and technological advancements.
Conclusion
The collaboration between The Landing and IN4.0 exemplifies how strategic partnerships can drive regional growth. By focussing on innovative technologies and fostering digital talent, this initiative is set to make a lasting impact on the North West’s manufacturing sector.
The combination of The Landing’s high-tech resources and IN4.0’s expertise is set to transform the North West’s manufacturing industry.
With programmes like Access and the DEVA Network, the partnership is paving the way for digital innovation and entrepreneurial growth in the region.