Yorkshire Science Issue 3 – January 2007


Welcome to the third edition of the Yorkshire Science
e-zine, illustrating case studies and examples of successful collaboration and knowledge transfer in Yorkshire and the Humber and championing innovation in the region.

Foreword from Trevor Gregory
Director of Yorkshire Science

Welcome to 2007 and the third edition of our E-zine.  We are delighted to report that the Regional Innovation Strategy (RIS) has been accepted by the board of Yorkshire Forward.  Currently, the team and I are working on a detailed implementation and delivery plan due for presentation to the board in March 2007.



Regional Innovation Strategy

The Regional Innovation Strategy written by Yorkshire Science outlines four key pillars of activity to create a stronger economy for the Yorkshire and Humber region, through science, technology and innovation. 

The four areas of activity identified within the strategy are Business Innovation, Innovation Hubs, Working with Europe and Northern Collaboration.  Yorkshire Science proposes that stronger strategic alliances within Europe will present significant opportunities for businesses in Yorkshire.  Exchanging ideas and best practice, and building effective relationships across Europe are encouraged in the latest Framework Programme (FP7), commencing 1st January 2007.



Business of Innovation Open Day

On Monday 29 January 2007, Yorkshire Science will be one of the many organisations taking part in the inaugural Yorkshire Forward ‘Business of Innovation’ Open Day at the National Media Museum, Bradford.

The open day will be an opportunity for businesses in the region to discover the support available for companies wanting to turn a creative idea into a viable and commercial reality.  Hosted by Yorkshire Forward, visitors will be able to see interactive displays, meet innovation experts and gain invaluable insights from specialist advisors.



Out and About with Yorkshire Science
Now that the Regional Innovation Strategy has been endorsed by the board of Yorkshire Forward, the Yorkshire Science team is increasing its efforts to raise the profile of innovation.

The members of the Science and Innovation Council are actively promoting a culture of innovation and encouraging businesses and stakeholders to embrace this philosophy.  Here is an update of some of our recent activities.





New Website

We are pleased to announce our new look website which came online in November.  Designed by Leeds based New Media Collective, it features our latest news, event and resource details as well as useful links to other innovation and knowledge transfer sites.



Innovation Case Studies

In our continuing series we look at innovative companies within the Yorkshire and Humber region.  We take a closer look at our category winner of the Yorkshire Post Business Excellence Awards ‘Myfotowall’.  We also speak to Director of Spectra Tools, Mr Ian Haywood about how his successful collaboration with the University of Hull lead to the development of a range of new products.






WHAT'S ON

Yorkshire Forward
THE BUSINESS OF INNOVATION
Interactive Exhibition, Seminars and Industrial Case Studies on Innovation
29 January 2007
National Museum of Photography, Film and Television, Bradford
Cost: FREE
Enquiries: 0113 394 9993
Register: 0113 394 9711/12,

events@yorkshire-forward.com

Yorkshire Universities Annual Conference
7th – 8th February 2007
De Vere Oulton Hall Hotel, nr Leeds
Two days of events featuring workshops, seminars and keynote speeches from some of the region’s top academics, businesses and public sector representatives.
Enquiries: 0113 343 7674
www.yorkshireuniversities.ac.uk

Venturefest Yorkshire 2007

7th February 2007

York Racecourse, Knavesmire, York

Focusing on technology and knowledge-based entrepreneurs, Venturefest Yorkshire is the largest event of its kind in the region.

www.venturefest.com


Yorkshire Science and
Technology Network (YSTN)
DRIVERS OF CHANGE – Dr Chris Luebkeman, Director of Global Foresight and Innovation, Arup, Dr Trevor Gregory, Director of Yorkshire Science and Professor Phil Coates, PVC for Research/Knowledge Transfer, University of Bradford


22 February 2007
The Great Victoria Hotel, Bradford
Cost: FREE
www.ystn.co.uk
0113 394 9868



INNOVATION IN
YORKSHIRE


· Manufacturing output expected to soar over 12% over the next decade

· One of the largest concentrations of universities in Europe

· The region’s universities produce 13% of the UK’s graduates

· Universities that are consistently ranked in the top three regions (nationally) for spin-out companies

· The largest relative employment growth in the digital sector outside of London (1998–2003)



Are You Embracing Innovation?

We are keen to hear from businesses, universities and research centres with a commitment to innovation, science and technology. If you have some news about an innovative product or practice that you would like to share with us, please contact Antonia Kershaw – Antonia.kershaw@yorkshire-forward.com