Frequently Asked Questions about IFG
What is IFG?
Innovation for Growth offers objective advice and support to embed innovation within the business and management processes and practices of regional SMEs. It provides free of charge, practical, interactive workshop programmes, masterclasses, access to student and academic resource, facilitated reflection and action planning and online resources.
Who is IFG for?
IFG is aimed at innovation focused SMEs throughout the Northwest. It is suitable for SMEs who have a specific issue relating to a business practice or process e.g. their current marketing strategy is failing and they need assistance penetrating a new market.
Will I be eligible?
IFG is for owners and managers of established SMEs committed to innovating and growing their business.
What are the criteria?
- Established SME located in the Northwest
- Less than 250 employees & less than £45m annual turnover
- Independent Enterprise (i.e. not owned by another company or group)
- Not received more than €200,000 of public funding in the last 3 years
- In most sectors, excluding Retail, with priority given to Business & Professional, Advanced Engineering, Energy, Food, Digital and Biomedical
Do I need any qualifications?
There aren’t any formal qualifications that you must have obtained in order to apply for IFG. However, we do ask that you or a representative from your company attend all events that you register for.
Where is support available?
Elements of IFG will be delivered at various locations across the North West; including Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Liverpool, Cheshire, Lancashire and Cumbria.
What is the time commitment?
The time commitment varies for the different programmes from between half a day to two or more days. Please check the programme description or ask us for more information. There may be opportunity for additional support over the life time of the IFG programme.
During the life time of the project we will contact your business several times to assess the impact of the support.
What is “Solutions for Business”?
Solutions for Business is a suite of publicly funded business support products and services designed to help businesses start, grow and succeed. The right advice, loan or grant – at the right time - can make the world of difference to your business. Solutions for Business products are simple to understand and access, good value for money and directed to where they will have most impact to help businesses grow. They are designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills you need to tackle issues your business might be facing.
Eligible businesses can gain support in areas such as starting up, understanding finance, training and skill development, resource efficiency, exploiting ideas, accessing international opportunities and growing your business.
Solutions for Business portfolio
Are places limited?
Places for most programmes are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis, to eligible businesses. Please check the programme description.
What is the cost?
The programme is free of charge,as it is funded by European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), however, in order to receive support you will be required to fully attend the respective programme and to provide us with certain details regarding your business including financial information; turnover, balance sheet, total salary/wage cost, pre tax profit and depreciation. Also you will be required to complete an innovation questionnaire. Information made available to us will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
How can I find out more?
If you would like to find out more about the IFG Programme, eligibility or if you want to register for the workshop programme, please contact Jennifer Melling by email ifg@lancaster.ac.uk or call 01524 510769.
