Connecting SMEs to Transformative Programmes with Precision Scouting
In 2023, Fossu Ltd was engaged by Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s largest innovation accelerator for transport and the built environment, to support their programme scouting efforts. This collaboration focused on sourcing high-quality SMEs to participate in multiple accelerator programmes aimed at tackling some of the most pressing challenges in cleantech, sustainability, freight, and maritime industries.
Objectives
Connected Places Catapult tasked Fossu Ltd with:
Identifying and sourcing SMEs that aligned with the unique goals and eligibility criteria of each programme.
Supporting the scouting team by driving high-quality applications from relevant SMEs across targeted regions and sectors.
Assisting SMEs through the application process to ensure strong submissions and successful participation.
Programmes Supported
Fossu Ltd provided tailored scouting support for the following accelerator programmes:
1. Diatomic Accelerator
Focused on West Midlands SMEs in cleantech and sustainability.
Designed to connect SMEs with export-led trade opportunities in India.
2. Clean Futures Accelerator
A 6-month programme offering £50k in funding to selected SMEs.
Prioritized West Midlands businesses aiming to trial their solutions with BCIMO and Coventry University.
3. Maritime Accelerator
A 6-month programme supported by a consortium of industry and academic partners.
Focused on driving innovation in the maritime sector.
4. Freight Innovation Accelerator
A 6-month programme with up to £150k in funding for SMEs solving key challenges in the freight sector.
5. HS2 Accelerator
A 20-week programme targeting EU SMEs to address challenges identified by the HS2 innovation team.
Approach
To meet the specific requirements of each programme, Fossu Ltd employed a multi-faceted scouting strategy:
In-Depth Research: Identifying SMEs that met the programme criteria, including business stage, TRL (Technology Readiness Level), location, and alignment with specific challenge areas.
Personalised Outreach: Engaging SMEs through tailored messages to showcase programme benefits and opportunities.
Digital Advertising: Utilizing targeted campaigns to reach potential applicants across key regions.
Vetting and Support: Conducting thorough vetting of SMEs to ensure alignment with programme goals and supporting applicants throughout the submission process.
Key Achievements
1. High-Quality Applications
Drove hundreds of applications across the programmes from SMEs that met the specific criteria set by Connected Places Catapult.
Delivered a strong pipeline of applicants, many of whom successfully progressed onto the programmes.
2. Localized and International Scouting Success
Successfully balanced both localized scouting (e.g., West Midlands SMEs) and international requirements (e.g., EU SMEs for the HS2 Accelerator).
3. Enhanced Scouting Efforts
Complemented and strengthened the internal scouting team’s efforts, ensuring programme goals were exceeded.
Long-Term Impact
Fossu Ltd’s contribution has played a pivotal role in supporting Connected Places Catapult’s mission to drive innovation across the transport and built-environment sectors. By sourcing high-potential SMEs and facilitating their participation in these accelerators, we have helped lay the groundwork for groundbreaking solutions in cleantech, sustainability, freight, and maritime innovation.
Conclusion
Fossu Ltd is proud to have partnered with Connected Places Catapult to support their world-class accelerator programmes. Our expertise in scouting, outreach, and applicant support has helped connect innovative SMEs with transformative opportunities, ultimately driving progress across critical industries.
Empowering innovation, accelerating progress, and building a sustainable future.
Looking for expert programme scouting support? Contact Fossu Ltd to learn how we can help identify and engage the right participants for your initiatives.