Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my business is eligible?

Generally speaking, businesses based within Sheffield City Region are eligible. The programme is part-funded by European Regional Development Funds so there are more detailed eligibility criteria but our team can quickly assist with this if you get in touch.

How much does working with SIP cost?

There is no financial contribution required from businesses towards staff costs, but there will need to be a commitment of time and the completion of a few short forms.

Is there a lot of paperwork?

The funding for Sheffield Innovation Programme is based upon evidencing the time and value of support you receive from us, so we will need business information from you. Much of this you will have readily to hand, and we will be able to guide you through this.

How much support is on offer?

The initial scope of work for the project is to be agreed between you and the academic staff you are speaking to, based upon your needs and their expertise. This is generally up to 5 days of time.

What is in it for the University?

The University benefits in a number of ways from the programme, but our primary objective is to build long term collaborative relationships with regional businesses.

What support is available?

The programme provides access to a very wide range of expertise across the University. This includes various engineering and design disciplines, digital and communications, food technology and business skills. However, this list is by no means exhaustive. For more information on whether we can support your needs, please get in touch.

What does the business have to do?

Simply put, the business needs to identify a need or project to be worked on. This enables the University to identify the correct expertise for you to work with. After this, you will jointly define the work required and the length of time needed to complete this.

Terms and conditions?

Other than the funding eligibility criteria there is no specific, contractual terms and conditions. Each project we undertake has a Service Level Agreement – this is a simple, light touch document intended to set out some expectations for both parties. Businesses are welcome to review this prior to work starting if so required.

What happens after the SIP work is finished?

After the intervention, and depending on the nature of the work, we will normally provide a project report and will ask you to sign a form to confirm completion. We will also normally arrange to follow up with you at a later date to check on developments.

How do I know if my idea or business need is relevant?

There a number of different ways in which we can take a project forward. If your idea or business need involves some level of innovation, which could be anything from seeking improvements to your operation to development of a novel product, we are happy to discuss the support that can be provided.

How do I engage with the workshop and events programme?

Our workshops and events will be advertised through this website as well as other channels with registration via Eventbrite. Places are normally allocated on a ‘first-come first served basis’ subject to eligibility checks. There is no charge for attendance.