Innovating during an economic downturn: the support available for SMEs 3rd May 23
Wed, May 03
|sbarc|spark
Exploring the range of ways SMEs can work with Cardiff University, to deliver innovation and growth, from the Cardiff University Innovation Network.


Time & Location
May 03, 2023, 2:00 PM – 4:15 PM
sbarc|spark, Maindy Road Cardiff CF24 4HQ
About the event
The UK is predicted to slide into a recession in 2023, which will impact businesses of all sizes and sectors. Potential challenges ahead include reduced demand, supply chain issues, lower profits and retaining employees.
With SMEs accounting for 51.9% of the private sector (2020) and 53.6% of all private sector jobs in the UK, the ‘resilience, adaptability and agility’ of SMEs (Sage, 2023) will be crucial to the rebuilding of the UK economy.
The recently published National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) 2022 State of the Relationship Report analyses the key trends in university-business collaboration. The findings reveal that despite the external uncertainties and financial pressures faced by the higher education sector and business, collaboration is key for enabling SMEs to grow and innovate.
Cardiff University works with SMEs across the whole of UK, encouraging, supporting and developing innovation. We help organisations develop innovative ideas and solve business problems…