Business Innovation & Funding
Business innovation should be an accessible goal for organisations of all sizes and does not always have to revolve around technology.
There are many ways in which businesses can think creatively about how they adapt to the rapidly evolving needs and tastes of their audience.
However, businesses are often restricted by a lack of finance, resources, time or know-how to get ideas off the ground. Plus, unpredictable world events can make it difficult for businesses to think about business innovation.
Our growth managers can work with you to refine your plans and, with strong links to partner organisations and educational establishments, help you find a route through any barriers that you may be facing.
In addition, we can provide innovation advice to organisations that are looking to relocate to York and North Yorkshire. Whether you are a foreign-owned or UK business looking to expand, relocate or invest, Invest in York & North Yorkshire can help.
We can help with:
- Cultural barriers
Challenges with cross-cultural communication, especially for businesses looking to expand into international markets.
- Structural barriers
Tackling natural or tactical barriers that arise preventing new entry into your market.
- Financial Barriers
Wanting to make change but lacking the funds to accomplish these goals
- Business communication
Improving internal and external practices and reducing errors by sharing information in the right way.
Fund your business innovation with Made Smarter
If you’re a manufacturing business that is looking to increase the use of technology and expand your business capabilities, the Made Smarter programme could help you access advice, support and even grant funding.
Whether you are completely brand new to digital technology, or you have already started your digitalisation journey, you will be able to receive bespoke advice on anything from skills and leadership to innovation strategies.
Adopting new technology can be daunting, but the Made Smarter scheme will enable you to get the best advice and support from the pioneers and experts in national and local industry bodies.
Made Smarter is encouraging the UK’s next industrial revolution by giving you the competitive edge in a rapidly-growing industry. The programme aims to bring the best out of the UK manufacturing industry by upskilling and encouraging collaboration and innovation – keeping us ahead of the competition in the global manufacturing stage.
Find out more about Innovation
To find out more about how we can help with Business Innovation, get in touch.
Articles
Act now. 864,000 sole traders and landlords face new tax rules in two months
From 6 April 2026, those eligible will need to use recognised software to keep digital records and send HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) light-touch quarterly updates of their income and expenses. These are not extra tax returns.
Innovation Supper - Apply to Pitch
York Business School, Patch York and the York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub are delighted to bring you a special edition of Innovation Supper. As part of this year's International Women's Day, we are inviting female entrepreneurs to apply to pitch their business.
Expression of Interest: Mentoring for Growth Programme
We’re launching a new mentoring programme designed to support small businesses across York and North Yorkshire who are ready to grow, scale and move confidently into their next stage. This programme connects local business leaders with experienced mentors from different sectors, creating space for honest conversations, fresh thinking and practical support.
Events
17th February 20269:15 am - 12:15 pmFREE
The Artery: Peer Support Network for Creative Industries (Skipton)
Running a creative business can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Over six interactive and supportive sessions The Artery helps creatives refocus, get clarity, and grow their businesses with confidence.
25th February 202610:00 am - 12:00 pmFREE
Whitby Workshop Series: Digital Tools for your Manufacturing Business
This engaging workshop series delivered by Hello Technology is designed to help manufacturing businesses harness the power of digital tools to improve their digital systems, record keeping, data management and marketing. Participants will be led through 5 focussed sessions, with each workshop blending expert-led guidance with practical exercises. Attendees will have the opportunity to apply new strategies and concepts directly to their business. With a mix of group learning and tailored support participants will leave with a clear digital roadmap, increased confidence and actionable insights to drive long-term success in their manufacturing business.
03rd March 202611:00 am - 1:00 pmFREE
Online Workshops: Digital Marketing Success Series (Intermediate)
Join our Digital Marketing Success Series designed especially for small business owners who want to grow online, even if you don’t consider yourself “tech-savvy.” This weekly workshop series will guide you through the basics of digital marketing and on to more advanced strategies – all at your pace.
Resources
Webinar Series: Set Up for Success with Google Business Tools
This series explores the free tools available from Google to help small businesses increase their online presence. Plus, you’ll learn how to leverage Google’s paid advertising platform for scalable growth without feeling like you are just wasting money. Participants will leave feeling confident to start using Google Tools to Improve their visibility, generate leads and make more sales online.
Webinar Recording: PR for Small Businesses
Want to get your business featured in newspapers and magazines in 2026? In this webinar, Jo and Linda explain why you should be prioritising PR – including reaching a new audience (outside your social media bubble), building trust and credibility, and boosting your sales and SEO.
Webinar Recording: Automation & Efficiency Series
This webinar series provides a straightforward starting point to streamline and reduce day-to-day tasks, through automation and efficiency, across all areas of your business.