West Midlands-based companies developing clean technologies can now apply to take part in a six-month export-led programme.
Known as the DIATOMIC India Accelerator, the programme is led by Connected Places Catapult in partnership with the West Midlands Growth Company and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.
The programme is designed to prepare up to eight SMEs with innovative solutions to pressing climate issues, to access the rapidly growing Indian market.
Requirements
Applicants must have their main operational base in the West Midlands.
They must also have products or solutions that are of at least a Technology Readiness Level six – which means they have been demonstrated in a relevant environment.
Funding
A total funding pot of £80,000 is on offer. Companies can apply for funding to carry out trials.
Successful participants will also benefit from business support, the chance to trial their technology, and the chance to explore new collaborations with Indian stakeholders.
Visit Delhi
Winning companies will be invited to send one senior team member on two market visits to Delhi, the National Capital Region and Haryana in November 2024 and February 2025.
Travel expenses will be covered, including flights and accommodation.
The visit in February will coincide with India Energy Week.
Challenges
Three challenges have been set for the DIATOMIC India Accelerator:
- Future of Energy
- Future of Mobility
- Sustainable Urban Areas.
Find details of the three challenges for DIATOMIC India and eligibility criteria on the Connected Places Catapult website.
Companies welcomed onto the programme will receive tailored market readiness coaching. As well as business support, pitch coaching and introductions to key commercial stakeholders.
Who should apply?
The programme is aimed at growing bilateral innovation collaborations. Trade and investment opportunities between India and the West Midlands – two markets recognised as having strong links in the past.
India offers great potential for the introduction of sustainable innovations to solve several pressing national challenges. These include tackling poor air quality, addressing a scarcity of water and deforestation.
The country has also introduced digital innovations through academic institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology and the Delhi Urban Mobility Lab.
Applications are now open – apply via the Connected Places Catapult website.
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