Business events will support Rochdale companies in growth and innovation

The Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub’s Innovation team is hosting four upcoming events aimed at fostering innovation and business growth across the region, with one of the sessions specifically dedicated to Rochdale, Bury, and Oldham on 3 December.

The "Innovation Marketplace" events are set to provide local businesses with invaluable tools, insights, and connections to support innovation and development across products, services, and operational processes.

Organised by the Innovation team in partnership with the Greater Manchester Innovation Ecosystem, the series is open to businesses of all sizes, from those at the early stages of their innovation journey to those looking to scale their current operations.

Yvonne Grady from the innovation team said the events are designed to offer both practical insights and inspirational success stories from local businesses that have leveraged the innovation ecosystem to achieve growth and success.

She said: “Whether you’re just starting your innovation journey or looking to scale, joining us at an Innovation Marketplace event will equip you with the tools, insights, and connections to drive success in your products, services, or processes."

The events will feature 'Lightning Talks,' which will deliver concise, practical advice and first-hand accounts from local entrepreneurs.

Rochdale businesses attending will have the opportunity to hear about the experiences of other Greater Manchester companies that have already taken advantage of regional innovation support.

Highlighting the successes of the past year, Yvonne added: “The Innovation team has had an incredible 2024, with the launch of our Innovation Navigator programme and working with hundreds of businesses to enhance innovation, boost productivity, and help our region’s businesses to grow.

"These four events will help us round out the year with a bang.”

Among the workshops available are ‘AI for Beginners,’ which will introduce local business owners to artificial intelligence tools and strategies for operational efficiency, and ‘Eco-FORCE,’ which will provide insights into waste reduction, environmental impact, and circular economy principles.

These workshops are particularly beneficial for Rochdale businesses seeking to modernise and incorporate sustainable practices.

Representatives from local authorities, universities, legal and financial experts, R&D tax consultants, and innovation specialists will also be present to offer advice and support.

Business owners attending the event will have the opportunity to connect with these experts to explore potential funding options and discuss resources for advancing their innovation projects.

In addition to workshops and expert guidance, the events will create valuable networking opportunities for local businesses to meet like-minded entrepreneurs and exchange ideas with peers who are navigating similar innovation pathways.

Bury, Oldham & Rochdale event will take place in Bury (venue to be announced) on Tuesday 3 December, 9am-1pm. For more details, visit the Eventbrite page