Evaluation of the Enabling Net Zero Innovation programme

Anglia Ruskin University worked with three university partners, The Welding Institute (TWI) and several small-and-midsize-enterprises (SMEs) to carry out a pilot project entitled, ‘Enabling Net Zero Innovation’ (ENZI). ENZI aimed to stimulate knowledge exchange between the universities and provide SMEs with access to the network of university-TWI innovation centers, which would support their transition to net zero carbon. The programme was based on a structured engagement process, with facilitation by TWI.

Research Consulting was commissioned by TWI and Anglia Ruskin University to evaluate the approach and projects. To do this, we attended programme workshops and conducted a series of semi-structured interviews, with stakeholders and the project delivery team. These participants include representatives from the SMEs, partner university academics and business development staff, facilitators from TWI and operational leads for the projects emerging from the programme.

The evaluation found that the pilot program demonstrated a value adding approach to developing engagement between academics and SMEs. The report made a series of recommendations for consideration to build on the pilot.