Isles innovators urged to head online to learn about support and funding

Do you have a great idea that you think could be a big deal in technology or manufacturing? But you’re not sure about what steps to take next?

Local individuals, companies and organisations with innovative schemes in mind are invited to a free virtual event on Thursday 29^th October where they can find out how to access support and funding.

The event, from 09.30-13.30, is being hosted by Shetland Space Centre, Shetland Islands Council and the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), a Government organisation that directly funds innovative ideas that benefit the UK’s Armed Forces and national security.

Speakers will attend from organisations covering a wide range of interests, including artificial intelligence, downstream use of satellite data, defence and security, the internet of things and a range of other technology.

In addition to SSC, SIC and DASA, the organisations include Censis, The Data Lab, ESA Business Applications, KTN, Innovate and Interface.

Yvette Hopkins, SSC director of Shetland Operations, said: “We are pleased to be joining with SIC and DASA in hosting this virtual event to highlight not only the wide range of organisations that can help support and fund your innovations, but the innovative mindset and business acumen resident in Shetland.

“SSC looks forward to potentially working together with local businesses, academia and innovators on forward thinking ideas and concepts to support our spaceport plans for Unst.”

Maggie Sandison, Chief Executive of Shetland Islands Council, said: “New technologies and projects such as the Shetland Space Centre offer local companies and individuals the chance to get involved in innovative and creative work.

“This event provides a chance to see what kind of support is out there, and I hope, provides individuals and local businesses with a sense of the range of new opportunities that exist even in the particularly challenging economic environment we face.”

Dr Debra Carr, DASA Innovation Partner for Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be joining this event. DASA offers fantastic opportunities to fast track the development of your innovations with UK Government funding. We are excited to hear from innovators across the Shetland Islands and to learn about your work.”

You can find out more and register to attend by visiting the event website at https://shetlandspacecentre.com/dasa/