The Enterprising Birmingham Fund – driving the delivery of economic impact at the University of Birmingham
The Enterprising Birmingham fund (EBF) was set up 2 years ago and provides an important source of funding for commercialisation projects that, it is hoped, will deliver significant economic impact. The fund has been designed to bridge the gap between translational / follow on type funding and investment and funds a broad range of activities to demonstrate the commercial viability of an idea. These activities might include developing a prototype, carrying out market analysis, bringing external expertise into the project, writing a business plan etc.
In July 2013, a report on the first year of the fund was presented to UEB who approved continued funding, based on the outputs delivered in the first year.
Since the inception of the fund, 13 projects have been approved and almost £300k has been allocated. The funding has also been used to ‘lever in’ over £150k additional funding into these projects.
The projects cover a wide range of excellent ideas, three projects have involved investment into a University spin out company – the other projects are outlined below.
The application process is supported by the Enterprise Acceleration Team (based in Research and Innovation Services), UoB Enterprise Ltd and the College Research Support Offices and applications can be submitted at any time.
For further information contact Catherine Mansell; Commercial Skills Development, RIS please email c.mansell@bham.ac.uk
Funding Calls & Reminders - a Word document containing information of all commericalisation funds available.