The Innovate York programme is delivered by the University of York and funded by City of York Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The programme offers fully-funded innovation workshops to York based businesses and entrepreneurs.
Workshops will focus on innovation and business growth. Highly experienced workshop facilitators will share their expertise with your teams, building on case studies, exercises and peer learning.
What will the innovation workshops cover?
Each session will have one innovation or business growth theme (please note these are subject to change). Topics we will explore include:
Innovation
This introductory session will look at the different types of innovation. You’ll discover the importance of an innovation mindset and culture, as well as the opportunities and challenges ahead. Learn how to develop an idea into a commercial product, evidenced by your individual Innovation Growth Plan.
Customers
Attract new and retain existing customers.
Sustainable innovation
With Net Zero dominating the conversation, sustainability is no longer a luxury but a necessity. This workshop will provide insights into alternative circular economy solutions and how we can apply them to everyday business practices. Examine methodologies and discover how to innovate sustainably.
Creating your value proposition
In this session, you’ll find out how to fine-tune your value proposition: defining what it is you truly have to offer. Find your competitive advantage and build your confidence with customers. Here, you’ll learn about new market research tools, ideal for identifying trends and monitoring competitors.
New product or service development
Get your products or services to market faster with this interactive session. The workshop will cover design thinking, looking at best practices and strategic steps to developing your offering. Discover the User-Centred Design framework and learn more about principles including the Minimum Viable Product (MVP), the Stage Gate methodology and more.
Innovation culture and people growth strategy
In this final workshop, you will learn how to shape a culture of innovation. Review how you’re engaging with your customers, suppliers and employees to ensure you all get the best from the business. Here you will explore your personal leadership style, strengths, and values to build for the future.
Where will the innovation workshops take place?
The workshops will take place either in person or online. You will receive a sign-up link to view the session online if you choose to take your workshop virtually. Our next in person session will be held on campus at the University of York where refreshments will be provided throughout the day.
Schedule
There are two workshop cohorts remaining. The starting dates for each cohort are:
ONLINE – 17th, 24th October & 7th, 14th November
IN PERSON: – Thursday 28 November 9.30am – 4.00pm And Friday 29 November 9.30am – 4.00pm