The proceedings commenced with an opening address by Mike Smith from UoB Commercialisation. This was followed by a comprehensive introduction to the ICURe programme by Dr. Ewa Nowicka-Ratajczak, Head of the Regional Hub for Wales & South-West at Innovate UK. Dr. Nowicka-Ratajczak explained the programme’s mission to assist UK researchers in exploring the commercial potential of their research, with the overarching aim of generating economic, societal, and environmental benefits.

Luke Cox described how he has benefitted from the ICure project explaining how he went from researcher to the CEO of Spinout company Impulsonics and how the company received a £300k grant from the scheme. You can hear more about Luke Cox's work with ICURe here. 

Subsequently, Prof. Marc Holderied from Attacus Acoustics presented on bioinspired noise control technologies, demonstrating the practical applications of research then demonstrating how ICure has developed both the company and the individuals involved.

The event featured an interactive Q&A session, where the main points of ICure were discussed, focussing on how it is a unique fund that can develop the person as much as the idea.

The success of the programme in the South-West region was underscored, with 95 teams having participated in ICURe Explore and 47 spinouts created. The ICURe Enterprise Roadshow underscored the programme’s pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic research and commercial application, thereby inspiring future innovators to pursue the commercialisation of their research.

For further information, please visit ICURe Programme website or contact Mike Smith directly.