Fuelling Innovation
Innovation means something different to every business. It could be adopting new technology, improving productivity, streamlining processes or finding smarter ways to grow. Often, innovation isn’t about major breakthroughs, but practical ideas that make a real difference.
Fuelling Innovation Fortnight will return in June 2027, bringing together businesses, industry experts and regional partners to explore the opportunities shaping Northamptonshire’s economy. In 2026, the programme welcomed more than 650 individuals across its fortnight of events, creating opportunities to share knowledge, build connections and explore new approaches to business growth. The 2026 programme also saw the launch of the Northamptonshire Growth, Innovation and Productivity (NGIP) Board, bringing businesses, public services and the University of Northampton together to help drive economic growth, innovation, productivity and skills across the county.
Looking ahead to 2027, Fuelling Innovation will continue to champion collaboration, with a greater focus on sector-specific activities that showcase the expertise, research and capabilities available at the University of Northampton and across the local business community. Funding and investment opportunities will remain a key theme, supporting businesses across all sectors to explore their next steps.
Want to explore opportunities to grow and innovate your business? Contact the University of Northampton’s Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise team today to find out more about the support, expertise and opportunities available to your organisation.
Further programme details will be announced in due course.
Innovation is not just for large corporations. For small businesses, it is often the key to improving productivity, reaching new markets, overcoming challenges and staying competitive in a rapidly changing economy. That is why FSB has been proud to support the Northamptonshire Fuelling Innovation campaign. By bringing businesses together through a programme of events, workshops and discussions, the campaign has helped turn innovation from a concept into something practical and accessible. Small firms learn best from seeing real examples, sharing experiences with peers and connecting with the organisations that can support their growth. The strength of this campaign has been its ability to inspire ideas, build relationships and give businesses the confidence to take the next step on their innovation journey.
Jennifer Thomas, Regional Business & Stakeholder Manager, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
Our Partners
Long Image Description: URKI Innovate UK, Federation of Small Businesses, Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire, Digital Northants, South Midlands Growth Hub, Silverstone Technology Cluster, Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, Vulcan Works, British Business Bank, MIN (Made in Northampton), North Northamptonshire Council, Silverstone Park, inond, TG Group Business Advisors and Accountants, Barclays Eagle Labs, Northamptonshire Business Network, North Northamptonshire Council, and The Northamptonshire Tourism Business Network.
Fuelling Innovation Podcast
Fuelling Innovation was a dynamic campaign that ignited creativity, fostered collaboration, and strengthened the future of businesses across the region.
As part of the campaign, our podcast took us behind the scenes of some of Northamptonshire’s most inspiring organisations. Through on-site conversations, we explored their stories, discovered how they innovate every day, and uncovered practical insights and tips to help you grow your own business or idea.
Missed it? You can still listen back and be inspired by the businesses driving innovation across our county.
Northamptonshire Innovation Ecosystem Analysis
The University of Northampton (UON) commissioned this report to better understand the innovation characteristics of the locality and the role UON must play in driving innovation within our industrial base. We recognise that we cannot do this alone, and the report has been co-produced by a steering group of key partners, it has been informed by consultation with businesses and key stakeholders, and it is also supported by a comprehensive evidence paper.
This report recommends how Northamptonshire can overcome some of the challenges we face, build on its past and shape its future as an innovative county in the future economy.
*For more information, see our Accessibility statement.
