ESSEX technology businesses could benefit from grants worth thousands of pounds following the launch of a new scheme.
Anglia Ruskin University has teamed-up with Essex County Council for the Arise ABOVE programme which aims to help promising businesses expand.
The programme, being handled by the university’s Arise Innovation Hubs in Chelmsford and Harlow, will reward companies in the health technology and medical technology field in Essex.
Successful recipients can be granted funds of up to £5,000, as well as access to expert support and specialist events, to help with the development of their respective organisations.
Essex County Council has funded the programme as part of its ten year strategy to grow science and technology areas within the county.
Tony Ball, Essex Council’s cabinet member for education excellence, lifelong learning, and employability, believes the scheme can help many suitable businesses in the area.
He said: “We are thrilled to support the new Arise ABOVE innovation support grants.
"Our commitment to levelling up healthy lifestyles, supporting carers and promoting independence relies on future-thinking innovation and digital solutions.
“We hope this exciting opportunity supports local businesses to scale up their projects and enhance care, medicine and science in Essex.
“We have identified Life Sciences as a key growth sector in the county, already employing more than 5,000 people.
“The demand for innovation in the sector is set to grow, and we know opportunities such as the ABOVE innovation support grants will help Essex-based experts to address new health challenges.”
Dr Beverley Vaughan, director of Arise Innovation Hubs, also commented on the exciting launch.
She said: “Arise Innovation Hubs have been working to deliver support to the health technology and MedTech community since 2015.
“The ABOVE programme and our innovation support grants continue to provide for future success and commercialisation.
“We clearly see the convergence of traditionally successful sectors in the region, such as advanced manufacturing and ICT, with the health technology and MedTech clusters to drive new innovations.
“We hope that through access to specialist events, business support and funding, we will continue to support that pathway to growth.”
Applications can be made from now until August 2024 by visiting aru.ac.uk/arise/above.
Businesses must be within the medical technology, life science or related sectors within Essex to be eligible.
Not-for-profit charities and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises are all also available to apply for the innovation grants.
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