Driving Future Transport: BCIMO's Innovation Extravaganza in Dudley
BCIMO’s Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre in Dudley has been the epicenter of transformative events, celebrating the region’s innovative spirit and the cutting-edge future of transport technology.
A Beacon of Innovation in Dudley
The journey into innovation began with the ‘From Steel to Silicon’ showcase at the Black Country Living Museum, weaving a rich tapestry of the region’s industrial legacy into its technological future. The heart of this drive for innovation came alive with the Innovate Dudley Expo, igniting ideas and partnerships across the business landscape.
Innovate Dudley Expo: Forging New Paths
On March 11th, the Innovate Dudley Expo became a melting pot of entrepreneurial zeal. As part of the West Midlands Business Festival, it gathered local innovators for a day filled with insights and connections. From developing an innovative mindset to protecting intellectual property, panel discussions illuminated paths for businesses gearing towards innovation, spearheaded by influential figures like PJ Ellis and Professor Deborah Leary OBE.
Engaging and Connecting Futures
The afternoon broadened horizons further with dynamic roundtables and a vibrant ‘Pitch Your Problem’ session. Within the Exhibition Hall, local pioneers showcased transformative ideas, connecting industry stalwarts and fresh innovators with avenues for growth.
Councillor Patrick Harley’s sentiment reflected the collective optimism: “From robot waiters to advanced manufacturing, seeing Dudley’s innovation firsthand is truly inspiring.”
Space for Intermodal Transport Workshop: Bridging Worlds
March 12th welcomed the Space for Intermodal Transport Workshop, a pivotal part of BCIMO’s Clean Futures Catalyst program. This gathering explored the intersection of space and transport technology, timely preceding the ESA’s Space for Intermodal Transport Funding Call. Esteemed speakers, including ESA Business Ambassador Paul Bhatia, unveiled future possibilities, blending geospatial technology with transport solutions.
Nurturing Future Innovations
As participants toured BCIMO’s Rail Development & Test Site, the dialogue expanded into potential collaborations and practical applications. Strengthening supply chains and fostering cross-sector innovation became the call of the day.
Paul Bhatia’s insights into the BASS program underscored the immense opportunities ahead: companies can access funding from a substantial €250m pool, bringing their innovative transport solutions to life.
BCIMO’s Ongoing Role
BCIMO’s events demonstrated its unwavering commitment to advancing innovation in the West Midlands. Through initiatives under the Clean Futures Catalyst, it continues to position the region at the vanguard of transport innovation, honoring a proud heritage while embracing the future.
As the West Midlands Business Festival unfolds, BCIMO pledges to keep this momentum, weaving Dudley’s historical narrative with cutting-edge advancements. For further insights on BCIMO or the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre, be sure to visit their website.
Join us as the Black Country journeys to becoming a beacon of transport innovation, with BCIMO at the helm, connecting past and future seamlessly. According to Rail Business Daily, it’s an exciting era for innovation!