Somerset Innovation Network

Develop and grow your business with specialist support, though the Somerset Innovation Network (SI-Net).

Explore SI-Net Workshops      Book a SI-Net 1-2-1 Advice Clinic

What is the Somerset Innovation Network?

The Somerset Innovation Network (SI-Net) offers business support for innovative organisations in the Somerset area.

Bringing together two innovation centres in Somerset – the iAero in Yeovil and the Firepool Centre for Digital Innovation in Taunton – the network aims to encourage collaboration and innovation between businesses, while helping to forge meaningful relationships, grow and develop through a variety of tailored business support, listed below.

We want to drive innovation in Somerset and make support for businesses easier to access.

Interested?

If you'd like to find out more about how we can help your business, get in touch with the team. 

Contact us
 


What support can my business receive?

Once signed up to this fully-funded programme, the business support you will benefit from includes:

A 1-2-1 diagnostic with an innovation specialist to create an actionable plan for your business
Specialist advice from expert business advisors
Online and in-person informative workshops on a variety of relevant topics
Networking opportunities to encourage collaboration with other innovative companies


What business areas can we help you with?

Businesses are able to access support in the following areas:

  • Business Diagnostic and Action Planning
  • Business Process and Structure
  • Investor Readiness
  • Principles of collaboration
  • Market Strategy
  • Digital Marketing
  • Commercialisation
  • Product Certification 
  • Data Analysis 
  • 3D Printing
  • Knowledge transfer
  • Digital IP
  • Access to Finance

Who can access the Somerset Innovation Network?

To be able to access this support, your business must:

  • Be based in Somerset (excluding North Somerset and Bath and North East Somerset) or Somerset or Dorset (if in the Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace sector)
  • Have fewer than 250 employees
  • Have a turnover of less than £43 million
  • Be in the Digital or Advanced Manufacturing & Aerospace sectors, be a business that is part of their supply chain, or moving into these sectors
     

How is the support be delivered?

Support will be in the form of 1-2-1 advice with business advisors and specialists, as well as the chance to attend a variety of informative workshops.

Current events, 1-2-1 clinics and workshops:

How much does it cost?

Funded by Somerset County Council, there is no cost to eligible businesses.

How do I find out more?

Register your interest here and one of the team will be in touch shortly.

  • Access tomorrow's workforce!

    Our in-person event helps connect you with the next generation of skilled, job-ready talent in Somerset.

  • Training and workshops

    Browse the full range of SI-Net workshops and events, covering key business topics and more.

  • All is going brilliantly. I’m getting huge value from Sian's sessions and webinars.
    Alexander Pervak
    Ai Century
  • Sian Davenport - Business Advisor at Business West

    Sian Davenport: Business Advisor

    Learn more about the team delivering the Somerset Innovation Network.

  • We have been really impressed with the support provided by the Somerset Innovation Network. We have participated in a number of events including Digital Marketing and Marketing Strategy workshops which have been really useful.
    Chris Jones
    Director, In Reality Ltd