Academic Expertise for Business (A4B)

Sponsor: Welsh Assembly Government

The A4B programme is funding from the Welsh Assembly through Europe which aims to maximise the economic impact of universities on industry through collaborative projects and the creation of a stronger science, engineering and technology base with clear commercial potential. This will be achieved by the business adopting new processes, systems and services, or by substantially improving those already produced or installed. In turn, this will lead to the creation of high value jobs and ultimately, a value-added economy.

Who is eligible? Academics lead A4B projects and will seek to involve both SMEs and large companies.

How long does it last? A4B contracts vary and are dependent on the type of project undertaken. Businesses with ideas for projects or research should contact the Dragon Innovation Partnership to discuss their options

Direct consultancy

Direct consultancy is the commercial transfer of know-how, expertise and technology from university experts to the community. The results of this knowledge transfer are of major importance to the practical activities of commerce, industry and public authorities responsible for a wide range of social, environmental and health care functions. Universities can provide consultancy to any business or organisation that requires expertise, support or advice in a particular discipline.

Consultancy is developed around the needs of the company or organisation, and is structured to help individuals, companies and organisations gain access to the resources that universities have to offer. Direct consultancy projects can cover any discipline that your chosen university offers, where projects are matched with the academic expert(s) most suited to the project.

Who is eligible? SMEs, large companies and organisations are all eligible.

How long do direct consultancy projects tend to last? There is no standard timeframe for direct consultancy projects - they can last from one day to several weeks. The duration is dependent on the objectives that the business or organisation wants to achieve.

How much does it cost? Costs vary. They are strongly dependent on the requirements of the consultancy, for example, the level of expertise and resource required.

Contact the Dragon Innovation Partnership for further information

Employer Study Partnerships

The Employer Study Partnerships initiative is sponsored by HEFCW and builds links between employers and academia through part-time study. Support available includes the scoping of learning opportunities, and bursaries towards study fees. It is available to employers/employees from all sectors where strengtheningof academic-employer links can be demonstrated.

Who is eligible? Support is available to employers and employees wishing to engage in part-time study at Swansea University, Swansea Metropolitan University and Trinity University College. Public and private sector employees/employers (of all sizes) from all sectors are eligible.

How long does it last? A typical ESP lasts two years (based on a part-time MPhil enrolment).

How much does it cost? Partnerships provide bursaries towards student fees, though it is essential that the employer demonstrates their commitment and engagement to the activity, including the provision of supportive working arrangements.

Find out more: telephone +44 (0)1792 513718

Software Alliance Wales (SAW)

Sponsor: Welsh European Funding Office (ESF)

SAW is a network for software developers in Wales. SAW has been developed by Swansea University in partnership with the computer science departments in the universities of Aberystwyth, Bangor, Glamorgan and Trinity University College. The SAW network offers a range of support services including:

• a Continuing Professional Development programme,
• a Company Certification Scheme specifi c to the ICT Sector, and
• an opportunity for computing students to develop projects incollaboration with SMEs.

Who is eligible? SMEs in Wales, IT professionals, and employers and employees in the Welsh software sector.

How long does it last? Event activity is ongoing. CPD workshops range from one to five days and are accredited by the BCS, offering an opportunity to work towards Chartered IT Professional status. Company Certification takes six months from initial application however start up businesses and new market entrants can apply for “Working Towards” status over a 12 month period.

How much does it cost? Software Alliance Wales can offer financial support to assist individuals with costs of CPD training and for SMEs
undergoing the certification process. There is no charge to attend general events.

Find out more or telephone +44 (0)1792 606738.