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12th October 2020

Durham Future Innovation Building (DFIB) capability mapping

Identifying innovation capability clusters in the Durham region through regional ‘capability mapping’

Organisations strive to be on the cutting edge. Innovations are developed by continually improving the company’s capabilities and resources to create new opportunities.

However, understanding where to go to move your ideas forward can create uncertainty and confusion for new innovators.

Capability mapping allows for a visual representation of the innovation building blocks, their relationship to each other, and how to move forward with strategic initiatives.

Urban Foresight has been awarded a contract to map capability clusters that will enable SMEs in the Durham region to access appropriate expertise regionally and nationally. The goal of this opportunity is to ultimately develop and nurture innovative ideas.

The project will work with research institutions, including universities and large enterprises, to help SMEs bring new products and processes to market.

“Having greater visibility and increased accessibility of innovation support will create an environment for ideation and allow for the increase in novel ideas and productivity,” said Sam Nair, principal consultant.

Urban Foresight has a deep understanding of innovation in construction, electech (the enabler of all things digital), and healthcare/life sciences. These industries are the three sectors the Durham Future Innovation Building (DFIB) supports.

This understanding is combined with Urban Foresight’s track record in mapping regional innovation assets, capacity, and expertise. Such as in STEPHANIE, commissioned by Durham County Council. This five-year venture developed the capacity and capabilities of the region’s space technology and photonics sector.

This project will be funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and delivered by Business Durham, the economic development arm of Durham County Council.

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