DOZENS of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) will be given a springboard to launch new services and products thanks to a £3.9m university link-up.

Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria and Teesside universities will work directly with up to 48 SMEs, who will each be supported by a dedicated PhD research student and given access to university research facilities.

The three-year Intensive Industrial Innovation Programme has been funded by £2.2m from the European Regional Development Fund, with additional funding coming from the four partner universities.

It is targeted at priority sectors identified in the economic plans of the North East Local Enterprise Partnership and Tees Valley Combined Authority such as creative, digital, software and technology-based services, healthcare and health innovation, energy and manufacturing and logistics.

The ultimate aim is to encourage a culture of innovation that benefits business, leading to greater export opportunities and increased graduate employment.

Professor Patrick Hussey, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Science) at Durham University, which is leading the project, said: “The North-East has a proud track record in industry and innovation which continues today through the leading research of our universities and the entrepreneurial flair of our small and medium sized businesses.

“This programme will bring creative talent together, allowing businesses who are best placed to identify new opportunities for growth to directly benefit from the research expertise and facilities of the region’s universities.

“It is a tremendous opportunity to work together to enhance business growth and develop new market opportunities with the aim of encouraging longer-term job creation in the SME sector.”

Professor Jane Turner OBE, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise and Business Engagement) at Teesside University, said: “At Teesside we are very aware of the important role that the university sector plays in helping to drive economic growth in the region and have an established record of working with the business community.

“We are therefore delighted that the programme will give us the opportunity to collaborate with our regional partners to help innovative companies grow and reach their potential.”

Eligible SMEs will be chosen via a selection process and can apply until midday on Monday 4 June by e-mailing IIIP.NE@durham.ac.uk or calling Jennifer Taylor, economic development funding manager, Durham University on (0191) 334 4657.

Details can also be found by visiting www.durham.ac.uk/iiip.