Businesses across Dorset can benefit from a new short-term intensive project specifically designed to support innovation.

STRIDE Dorset will work in collaboration with Dorset Council and existing business groups to deliver benefits for SMEs and start-ups. A similar project delivered by the University of Plymouth in Cornwall was so successful it has been replicated for Dorset.

A launch event will be held on November 5th at the Battle Lab, situated within the Dorset Innovation Centre in Wool, near Dorchester – and businesses are encouraged to attend. Funding for STRIDE (success through research, innovation and development excellence) has been secured from the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Dorset has more than 63,000 businesses and last year more than 8,500 start-ups were registered.

Jo Hancock, programme manager from the University of Plymouth, said:

“The STRIDE programme runs for four months – until the end of February. It is deliberately intensive so businesses can benefit swiftly from everything the programme has to offer. This includes masterclasses and innovation exchanges, specialist surgeries and support covering topics that might include intellectual property, patent registration, NDAs, R&D tax credits and general finance."

“We can help with product development and prototyping and give one-to-one assistance. Up to three businesses will also qualify for special intensive support in order to help them exploit new ideas leading to the launch of a new product or service. An Innovation for Business Conference will be held in February at the BattleLab with an array speakers. It will act as a showcase for the support available and will also include interactive demonstrations."

“STRIDE is open to all SMEs and start-ups across Dorset Council and BCP Council areas and is designed to accelerate innovation and economic growth. We want as many businesses as possible to get involved and become STRIDERS."

“The University of Plymouth has a long and successful track record in delivering high value public sector investments. We want to work in collaboration with all businesses support groups in the county, as this as worked so well previously in the Cornish programme.”

Councillor Richard Biggs, Dorset Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Property & Assets and Economic Growth said:

“The launch of the STRIDE Dorset programme represents a significant opportunity for our local businesses to innovate and grow. By providing targeted support, STRIDE Dorset will equip SMEs and start-ups with the essential tools and knowledge they need to succeed."

“This programme will help foster growth and a thriving business environment in our region. We are committed to empowering our local businesses, helping them to realise their full potential, and in turn, contributing to the prosperity of Dorset."

“Initiatives like STRIDE are invaluable in driving innovation, creating high-quality jobs, and enhancing the overall quality of life for our residents. I encourage all eligible businesses to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity and join us at the launch event.”

Photo: STRIDE Dorset: (l-r) Back row: James Yarde, Jessica Dennis, Richard Vinecombe, Chris Godolphin. Front row: Erandi De Wass Gunawardena, Jo Hancock, Michael Robertson, Verity Wilkinson