Connecting for growth through innovation networks

Sparking ideas: Cardiff University's Innovation Network in action 

This week, at Cardiff University’s Social Science Research Park (SPARK), the latest instalment of the Cardiff University Innovation Network (CUIN) series offered a thought-provoking glimpse into the future of collaboration and funding in the innovation sector. Konfer had the privilege to participate, and the experience provided much food for thought about the evolving landscape of university-business partnerships. 

The event’s format, featuring energetic lightning talks, robust panel discussions, and hands-on interactive sessions, brought together a diverse audience of business leaders, academics, and innovation professionals. The enthusiasm in the room underscored a shared commitment to unlocking new forms of collaboration and making the most of the resources available. The value of such direct engagement was clear, as attendees exchanged ideas and explored tangible opportunities for partnership. 

As part of the ‘Innovation in Action’, we presented an overview of the konfer platform, illustrating how the National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) through konfer is simplifying making connections between universities and businesses for research and innovation. We demonstrated practical steps in drafting and responding to collaboration calls and shared real-world examples of konfer’s role in facilitating meaningful partnerships. The feedback from participants highlighted a genuine interest in leveraging digital tools to enhance collaboration. 

The panel discussion on ‘Unlocking Innovation Funding’ stood out. Experts from both funding bodies and businesses shared candid insights on the current funding landscape, offering actionable advice on building strong bids, engaging early with funders, and maintaining resilience in the face of setbacks. The conversation reinforced the importance of platforms like konfer in bridging gaps and making the process of accessing funding more transparent and approachable for all. 

Networking over lunch provided further opportunity for reflection. Meeting a broad spectrum of businesses operating within Cardiff University’s innovation spaces, konfer heard first-hand about the challenges SMEs encounter when seeking out collaboration. While local connections through CUIN were valued, many expressed excitement about konfer’s potential to extend their reach beyond Wales, linking them with partners across the UK and internationally. These exchanges underscored the pressing need for accessible, scalable solutions to support innovation-driven growth. 

For us, the event reinforced the value of innovation networks in connecting people and ideas. Seeing academics, businesses, and innovation professionals come together highlighted the potential for meaningful collaborations that might not happen otherwise. Networks like CUIN create an environment where innovation can flourish, and konfer is proud to play a role in extending these connections, helping participants discover partners, share expertise, and turn ideas into impact. 

If you would like konfer to support your innovation events please email info@ncub.co.uk. 

For those interested in exploring new avenues for collaboration, konfer invites you to discover more at www.konfer.online and see how the platform can help you build the connections that drive progress.