Southern Regional College (SRC) has launched its i3 – industry, innovation and incubation – initiative for business. Attendees at the launch heard from guest speakers and industry leaders in i3 areas of specialisation: Sustainable Build Technologies; food technology; mobile computing and ICT Systems; Retail Business Development; Advanced Engineering/ Manufacturing; Life and Chemical Sciences; Renewable Energies and Environment Technologies; Creative and Digital Media and Tourism. The initiative is designed to foster innovation and growth in local companies through the dedicated support of a team of 15 research lecturers. The team will work exclusively with businesses offering knowledge transfer and support through research development, one-to-one mentoring and specialist training. STC Chief Executive Brian Doran said i3 is the product of years of development and significant investment – in excess of £500,000 – by SRC. “It is designed to bring together the college’s significant knowledge and expertise a, skills in a number of key sectors under one brand,” he said. “It will provide mentoring, support and training – delivered by a team of 15 dedicated research lecturers – with the primary aim of fostering economic growth in our region.” The i3 team will work exclusively with businesses offering knowledge transfer and support through Research and Development, One-to-one mentoring and Secialist Training. Manager of the Initiative, Claire Byrne said i3 will engage with local businesses “in a very practical way to solve real problems, address challenges and capitalise on growth opportunities. Much of the support i3 offers is wholly or part funded through a number of Government programmes; so it is very accessible and affordable knowledge platform for local businesses to utilise,” she added.
Newry Democrat
5th February 2013
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