Published: 15th October 2020
Law firm Shakespeare Martineau has committed to partnering the Ingenuity Programme for the fifth year running, having supported the programme since its inception in 2016.
The firm will be providing legal, business development, and investment information, as well as business coaching, to help the creation and implementation of the next generation of business start-ups, as well as innovations from within organisations, that will deliver sustainable social impact across the UK.
The Ingenuity Programme, which launched in September, is a network of universities, corporate, and public organisations, looking for individuals, groups and organisations keen to explore the key issues society faces due to the Covid-19 pandemic and help drive solutions for change and recovery.
Ingenuity Director, Steve Chapman said: "Ingenuity provides a unique opportunity to motivate and develop a generation of dynamic new leaders, ready to do their bit to help drive the recovery from the Covid crisis and build back a more inclusive economy, society and environment.
"We have been lucky enough to be joined by some of the most innovative universities in the UK, leading charities, and forward-thinking corporate partners who see the opportunity to create something new in the place of what has been lost".
The Ingenuity programme brings together the best of academic, industry, and charity know-how to support a diverse range of innovators from across the UK. With programmes in the West Midlands, West of England, South Coast and East Midlands participants will focus on one of four challenge pathways aiming to: Create Prosperity, Build Community, Improve Health and Tackle Climate Change.
Ben Buckton, Chief Marketing and People Officer at Shakespeare Martineau said: "This programme is a perfect fit for us - our purpose is to unlock potential wherever we see it and being able to support ideas and innovations that will truly make a difference is fantastic. We're also specialists in the education sector and have a deep expertise in supporting entrepreneurs at all stages of their business lifecycle.
"We hope to see lots of people signing up to the programme, whether they have just the spark of an idea or simply a passion for change, through to those with a solid idea who just need support in how to turn it into a sustainable business plan."
Steven Chapman said "Ingenuity is now in its 5th year and Shakespeare Martineau has been on that journey with us from the start. As a firm their commitment to the development of new ideas and opportunities, backed up by staff motivated to get involved and make things happen, has helped us get to where we are today. We are thrilled to be launching into this new era with the skills and experience they bring."
The 2020 programme, which starts with Summits across the UK from November 2020, will support in the creation of business plans, culminating with regional finals in early March. The most scalable ideas will be invited to the Ingenuity Accelerator Week in late March 2021, where Ingenuity will be awarding over £400,000 in support.
For more information about Ingenuity 2020 and to apply visit: www.ingenuityimpact.org