Collaborative Network Programme

Una Daveywww.investni.com

• Supports groups of companies to:

– Maximise collaborative opportunities;

– Develop innovative new products, services, processes

• Provides businesses with the opportunity to:

– Focus on collaborative initiatives;

– Leverage external expertise;

– Share knowledge;

– Exploit collective resources;

– Reduce risk;

– Build capacity & capability.

Programme Aim

• 2 phase programme– Phase 1: Scoping Study, support of 50% of eligible costs up to

£25k, over 3-6 months.– Phase 2: Full-time facilitation, support of 50% up to £250k, over

2-5 yrs

• Minimum of 4 N I companies – Invest NI Client Company required

• Project focused• Must be private sector / company-led

– Academia; Public Sector; non NI businesses can be included

• Typically cover Facilitator cost• The Network must match Invest NI funding

– Can take the form of salaried 'in-kind' contributions

Overview

• Vary depending on the nature and focus of collaboration

– Improved skills pipeline;

– Access to knowledge;

– New markets;

– Exploitation of infrastructure;

– Forging new international partnerships

– Innovative practices and processes.

CNP Benefits

Scoping Study Case Studies

Scoping Study Examples

Linda Jamison

www.investni.com

ALIGN IT

Facilitator Contact Details-sheila.fleming@e-skills.comClair.gheel@e-skills.com

Promotes and supports a network that encourages:Innovation;Training;Sustainable development;Profitable growth

of the plastics industry in Northern Ireland.

Next Steps

• Suggest Initial Meeting to explore in what way we might:

– Explore aims and objectives of working together;

– What success looks like;

– Time requirements of activity / inactivity;

– Ensure companies are equipped with the skills and knowledge to

take up opportunities in this rapidly changing area ?

• Facilitators Meeting -17th June

– una.davey@investni.com

Getting Started