Event details
Innovation Challenge Day – Developing Clean Growth
Summary
Join us for a dynamic full-day innovation challenge designed to spark bold thinking and accelerate breakthrough ideas.
- Date
- 09/02/2026, 09:00 to 18:00
- Organiser
- Tech East
Description
Design. Develop. Deliver.
This hands-on event welcomes founders, researchers, creatives, technologists and business teams who are ready to shape solutions with real-world impact. Particpants should be ready to work collaboratively, tackle challenge briefs, generate and test ideas, and present early-stage solutions before the end of the day.
The challenge themes are grounded in the key sectors driving the future of clean growth:
- Digital & Data: AI, robotics, immersive technologies, satellite communications, 5G and advanced software
- Manufacturing: Automated systems, smart production and cutting-edge processes
- Clean Energy: Offshore renewables, hydrogen, nuclear, solar and wider low-carbon innovation
- Ports, Logistics & Transport: Smart port systems, sustainable logistics and future mobility
Who Can Take Part?
To participate fully in the programme, teams must have a physical presence within the Freeport East region, which spans key areas of Essex and Suffolk.
Why Take Part?
- Turn Ideas into Action Develop fresh concepts by working with others who share your appetite for innovation. You’ll choose from three thematic challenge areas designed to stretch your imagination and your problem-solving skills.
- Learn from Specialists Benefit from mentoring and practical support from experts who understand how to guide ideas from early concepts through to viable solutions.
- Collaborate with Industry Refine your thinking with input from industry partners, academic networks and experienced entrepreneurs who can help you shape ideas with commercial and societal value.
- Showcase Your Vision Present your solutions to investors, venture capital representatives, corporate innovation leads and organisations actively seeking new opportunities.
- Progress Beyond the Day Up to six promising ideas will receive an innovation support package. Finalists will then move into a focused development phase leading up to the showcase in May, where they will pitch refined, validated concepts to a high-profile audience.
Venue/Location
University of Suffolk - Atrium Building