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
Set Up for Success with Google Business Tools: Lunch & Learn Webinar Series
This series will explore 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.
Fuel your business growth through great marketing, communications & branding
Every business needs a voice. Discover how powerful marketing, clear communications and a strong brand can transform your business. Join this webinar series to learn practical strategies that attract customers, build trust, and drive growth.
Smartphone Video Masterclass: One-day Workshops
The Smartphone Video Masterclass is back by popular demand, coming to Scarborough, Ingleton, Stokesley, Malton, York and Selby. Join our one-day hands-on video workshop designed to help businesses of all types and sizes take their first confident steps into video marketing.
Events
31st December 20259:30 am - 12:15 pmFREE
[FULL] Export Roadshow: Harrogate
This roadshow is a great opportunity to network with other businesses looking to grow and ask questions of the experts. It will provide you with helpful advice, routes for support beyond the event, including the UK Export Academy, and information about other funding opportunities.
13th January 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.
13th January 202610:00 am - 1:00 pmFREE
Online Workshops: Digital Marketing Success Series (Beginner)
Each workshop is packed with real-world examples, guided how-to sessions, and space to ask questions and get feedback so you can apply what you are learning to your own business and individual needs. All delivered online so you can attend without having to travel, perfect for rural and coastal businesses across North Yorkshire.
Resources
Webinar Recording: Autumn Budget 2025, how will it impact your business?
The Autumn Budget, announced on 26 November 2025, introduced a range of changes that business owners need to be aware of. From updates to taxation and compliance rules, to adjustments in incentives and support schemes. These measures could affect how you plan and operate in the year ahead. To help you understand what’s changing and what it means for your business, we’re hosting a webinar that breaks down the key points in a clear and practical way.
Webinar Recording: 🟡 Data Protection in practice
In this engaging and practical webinar series, Privacy Protect Group Ltd will guide you through everything you need to know to build a confident, compliant, and resilient approach to data protection in your business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your practices, each session is designed to build your understanding step-by-step.
Webinar Series: How to Run a Pop-Up
From pop-up department stores to kitchen takeovers, cool things are popping up and popping off everywhere. In this exciting project, you’ll get to meet some of the teams behind these pop-ups and get their top tips for running a great pop-up.