Why is Innovation so Important to SMEs?
1st Sept 2010, 9.30 am - 1.00 pm
Lancaster University Management School
The talk will explore the importance of moving away from a narrow technical view of innovation, to encompass innovations in markets and marketing, in strategy and organisation as well as innovation in products and processes.
This event will highlight the importance of innovation to Northwest SMEs drawing upon recent studies and insights from a highly successful and innovative entrepreneur.
Who is the event for?
Innovative SME owners and managers or those who are looking to innovate their business.
Agenda:
9.30 – 10.00 Coffee and registration
10.00 – 10.15 Welcome and introductions
10.15 – 11.15 Mark Freel: The importance of
innovation for regional SMEs
11.15 – 11.30 Coffee break
11.30 – 12.15 Ian Gordon: Innovation as key to
success
12.15 – 13.00 Networking Lunch
Join us after the lunch and find out: How can we Support your Business?
Lancaster University Management School, Executive Suite; 13:00-15:00
• Understand how this project can benefit your business
• Undertake a brief analysis of your business
• Map your future business support
Speakers:
Professor Mark Freel, University of Ottowa, is an expert in the field of innovation and entrepreneurship in small UK firms and co-author of the book Entrepreneurship and Small Firms. He is an AIM Visiting International Fellow.
Mark will speak about:
- Why do SMEs need to be innovative?
- Why does the Northwest need innovative SMEs?
- Process/service innovation vs. technological innovation
- The challenges of innovation and the importance of value creation
Ian Gordon, Lancaster University’s Entrepreneur in Residence, has over 25 years experience as managing director of a number of businesses within the tele communications, construction and retail industries. He has spent the past 2 years working with the University developing a suite of innovative programmes to challenge the status quo of regional small and medium sized businesses. Ian will provide us with an insight into why innovation has been a key driver for success throughout his businesses.
Costs:
Free of charge to eligible companies.
Registration:
For more information about the programme and eligibility criteria or to register for a current event, please contact Judith Friesl or Victoria Moyle on ifg@lancaster.ac.uk or by phone 01524 510713 / 01524 510769
The event is co-organised by AIM Research
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Supported by
