New team to support prosperity and development of Northamptonshire

The University of Northampton and Northamptonshire County Council have joined forces to give Northamptonshire a worldwide reach in gaining funding, investment and expert support.

Including team members from both organisations, the Northamptonshire International Unit will work together to secure funding and opportunities for the county and will work with a global remit. This will allow Northamptonshire to benefit from the expertise of international partners and have access to significant funding pots.

This collaboration has already been successful in securing substantial funding for the benefit of the county. With the support of Northamptonshire County Council, the University of Northampton has just been awarded £6.5 million to help businesses in Northamptonshire thrive.

Funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) the money will support two parallel projects that will seek out high potential businesses and give them the support they need to grow.

•  Innovate Northamptonshire (with a value of £3.7 million) will support innovation-ready companies to break new ground, including the development of new products and adoption of new technology.

•  Ready2Grow (with a value of £2.8 million) will help companies develop the skills they need to plan for their future by offering a range of training and skills support.

These projects will also receive Local Enterprise Partnership support.

This joint venture formalises the excellent work already being carried across the county, creating a joined up approach that will offer great value to Northamptonshire.

Professor Simon Denny of the University of Northampton said, “The University and the County Council already work together very effectively to support the economic growth of the county. This new partnership will significantly increase our chances of bringing investment, funding and expertise from around the world to Northamptonshire, for the benefit of all.”

Cllr Andre Gonzalez De Savage, Deputy Leader of the County Council, said: “Working together with the University of Northampton has numerous advantages and already we’re seeing significant benefits. This latest initiative will help build more resilience in the county in terms of attracting investment, which will help increase prosperity.”

Photo: Simon Denny and Cllr Andre Gonzalez De Savage signing the MoU