SCOUT helps SMEs shine at IBioIC Fringe

In collaboration with Life Sciences Scotland, the SCOUT Project recently delivered a Green Value Chain Innovation Showcase as part of the IBioIC Conference fringe. The in-person event allowed a range of Scottish SME’s to present short, sharp and impactful case studies on their great work in the net zero and wider environmental sustainability space.

With each of the 9 SME’s showcasing, in just 3-4 mins, their work on sustainable production, real energy and excitement was created around the room, subsequently leading to a very interactive and engaging networking session.

To share the experiences of the day, watch the full showcase here: https://youtu.be/jew0cwV6Di4

 A credible and valuable asset…

The event was the latest offering from the Scottish Outreach (SCOUT) Project, which, having just past two years since its launch, continues to demonstrate its value to an ever-increasing number of SMEs, by providing advice, support, and assistance towards driving innovation.

SCOUT is a free service which aims to accelerate and de-risk the growth of Scottish SMEs in chemical, biochemical and life science sectors, who are seeking or developing disruptive technologies.

Having engaged with 48 SME’s, delivering over 650 hours of support across 13 sector and technology areas, Project Manager, Brian McFerran is incredibly pleased with how the project team are performing, saying: “We are delighted with the way in which we have built upon the foundations of our first year successes, by creating traction and momentum over the past 12 months. The many interactions we have enjoyed with SME’s all across Scotland has seen the SCOUT Project emerge as a credible and valuable asset.”

To learn more, hear from SME’s and get access to many on-demand resources, watch the Year 2 Review video here: https://youtu.be/JYIozLhfzm4

 Not just a technical service…

Running alongside the technically focused support provided by the SCOUT Project, there are a number of horizontal themes promoted whenever possible - three of which are Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. SCOUT team member Kevin Rankine recently hosted a roundtable discussion, where representatives from the projects three partner organisations shared their thoughts, passion, and experiences in this space.

To truly understand the real value a gender balanced, diverse and inclusive workforce can bring to your organisation, watch the full roundtable here: https://youtu.be/5U_88SEfE10  

 

Jointly funded by the European Regional Development Fund (managed by Scottish Enterprise) CPI, CMAC Future Manufacturing Research Hub (CMAC) and the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC), the SCOUT Project serves SMEs through a three-pronged approach of Innovation Forums, Innovation Integrator® assessments and Deep Technical Consultancy.

For more information and to get in touch, visit www.uk-cpi.com/scout.

Valerie Evans