Empowering SMEs in the Black Country Through Innovation
Background
The Black Country region in the West Midlands, United Kingdom, known for its rich industrial heritage, is home to a diverse range of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). These businesses are crucial to the local economy, contributing significantly to employment and regional GDP. However, like many SMEs, those in the Black Country face challenges in accessing resources, expertise, and networks necessary for innovation and growth.
To address these challenges, Innovate UK, through the Black Country Innovation Hub Project, has been working closely with local SMEs to foster innovation, drive technological advancements, and support sustainable business growth.
The Black Country Innovation Hub Project
The Black Country Innovation Hub Project was launched with the goal of transforming the region into a centre of excellence for innovation. The project focuses on providing tailored support to SMEs, helping them overcome barriers to innovation and equipping them with the tools needed to compete in a global marketplace.
Key components of the project include:
Engaged with a wide variety of companies across multiple sectors
Through the Black Country Innovation Hub Project, we've engaged with a wide variety of companies across multiple sectors, reflecting the diverse economic landscape of the West Midlands. With annual incomes ranging from ￡55,000 to ￡15 million. This diversity highlights the economic breadth of the West Midlands, where both startups and established firms are driving innovation across sectors like automotive services, engineering, and EdTech, with employee sizes ranging from 2 to 230 employees.
These companies range from traditional industries like automotive services and engineering to cutting-edge fields such as green technology, EdTech, and digital marketing. Our work has included supporting automotive service centres with vehicle diagnostics and electric vehicle infrastructure, helping educational technology startups refine AI-driven learning platforms, and collaborating with engineering firms on improving quality control and sustainability efforts.
We've also supported creative industries in areas like media production, artistic creation, and performance support.
In addition to this, we've worked with businesses focused on renewable energy, digital consultancy, and construction installation, helping them explore new opportunities in solar power and EV installations.
Companies involved in IT consultancy, digital signage, and warehousing have also benefited from our expertise, alongside employment agencies and firms within the artistic sector. Across all these engagements, our aim has been to foster innovation, improve digital transformation, and enable sustainable growth within the region.
Hence for the project, we have partnered with 5 colleges as well as the Black Country Chamber of Commerce. I would like to thank Richard Hobbs for his support.
We have also joined forces with Wolverhampton Council, Business Development Division.
Key Sectors and Engagements
Primary Challenges
The primary challenges to growth for the companies we've engaged with revolve around several key areas. A significant obstacle is the lack of technical expertise in AI and green technologies, which hampers their ability to innovate and adopt cutting-edge solutions. This is often compounded by a lack of awareness about the potential benefits of these technologies, leaving many businesses unsure of how to integrate AI and sustainable practices into their operations.
“Together with Sage Lal, we are dedicated to empowering SMEs in the region to fully grasp and leverage technology. Our collaborative efforts are focused on demystifying innovation and making advanced solutions accessible to drive local business success.” Tim Hubbard, Your Digital Hub, MD
Another major challenge is limited access to funding and investment opportunities, creating financial constraints that prevent businesses from making necessary advancements. Additionally, many companies face insufficient infrastructure to support the implementation of innovative solutions, along with resistance to change within the organization, which further slows down the adoption of new technologies. In some cases, regulatory barriers also create hurdles, adding to the complexity of driving growth and innovation in these sectors.
Despite the increasing awareness of the importance of AI, Cyber and green technologies, only about 10% of the companies we’ve engaged with have actively implemented these solutions within their organizations for AI. Cyber was 60% and Green Tech was 15%. This indicates that there is significant room for improvement. Many businesses recognize the potential benefits but struggle with the challenges of adoption, including a lack of expertise, awareness, and financial resources. To fully harness the advantages of AI, cyber and green technologies, more companies will need to overcome these barriers and take proactive steps toward implementation.
Several companies have already implemented
Several companies have already implemented innovative AI and green technology solutions to enhance their operations. For example, some businesses have installed solar panels and solar storage systems to optimize their energy consumption, paired with AI-driven electric usage and buy-back systems. Companies are also leveraging AI for creative purposes, such as video editing, transcription, and social media content generation using tools like CapCut, Adobe Podcast Enhancer, and MidJourney. Additionally, demographic recognition systems have been introduced to improve targeted advertising by using AI to analyze eye contact and facial recognition, allowing ads to play based on viewer age.
“Collaborating with Sage Lal on AI algorithms has been a game-changer for us at Classfeeds. His team's expertise has significantly refined our technology, enabling us to enhance our platform and offer more personalised and impactful solutions to our users.” Amardeep Sigh COO Classfeeds.
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In the realm of green tech, some companies have integrated solar panels, even though the buildings are rented, and installed EV chargers while adopting electric vehicles into their fleets. Other notable AI implementations include IP cameras with AI face tracking for enhanced security and LED lighting for energy efficiency.
Moreover, Amazon Web Services (AWS) is being used to streamline educational technology processes through natural language processing and automation. While these implementations represent a strong start, many companies recognize the need to expand their use of AI and green technologies to drive further innovation and sustainability.
Midlands Creative has long been experimenting with emerging technology.
“A few years ago, I created a video using iPhone face tracking data to animate avatars. By integrating this technology with other software, we can transform photos into realistic heads and then animate them. While it’s not quite deepfake technology, it’s an excellent tool for enhancing animation workflows.” Matthew Hickinbottom Midlands Creative
Why do businesses say they have not implemented it yet
Many businesses have not yet implemented AI or green technology solutions due to a combination of factors. A common reason is a lack of clarity on what AI can do for their specific operations, especially for companies that outsource IT services and find themselves limited by their provider's scope of work.
Additionally, while some companies have begun exploring green technologies, such as installing solar panels or EV chargers, constraints like building ownership, shared office spaces, and the need for further staff training have slowed full adoption.
Many organizations are still in the process of building up their systems and services or have not yet prioritized AI or green tech due to a focus on immediate operational needs. Others simply haven't considered these technologies yet or are unsure where to start, especially small businesses that are busy managing day-to-day activities.
Training programs
Many organizations express interest in training programs related to AI and green technologies but acknowledge the need for foundational learning first. Several companies want to upskill their workforce, particularly in AI basics, Microsoft Office, and cybersecurity, with some staff having decades of experience and others being newer to the company.
There is also interest in specific AI applications, such as reducing administrative workloads and understanding tools like ChatGPT.
In terms of green technologies, businesses are seeking guidance on solar energy, eco-friendly practices, and sustainability certifications like EcoVadis. However, many are unsure where to start and would benefit from tailored recommendations, including free or introductory session, which we have began to offer.
We deeply appreciate the generous support from Cisco, IBM, EC-Council, and the Open University. Their provision of free courses in AI, Data Science, and Cybersecurity has been invaluable in enhancing our SME employer's skills and advancing their knowledge in these critical fields. We thank Andrew Smith SFHEA FRSA ???? , Elizabeth Barr and Melanie Smith and Kamadchisundaram Sureshkumar
Cybersecurity Course Link https://www.netacad.com/courses/introduction-to-cybersecurity?courseLang=en-US&instance_id=53439034-cfbd-4f07-8cf9-16702894c943
Data Science Course Link https://www.netacad.com/courses/introduction-data-science?courseLang=en-US&instance_id=16b068ee-eaa5-4a05-ab74-01d233b567e6
AI Course Link https://www.netacad.com/courses/ai-ibm-skillsbuild?courseLang=en-US&instance_id=2700ce7c-d59f-4902-b977-1e7865aac8fe
We held a symposium 18th July by supported by Innovate UK. https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/sage-lal_18th-july-innovate-uk-event-activity-7213466907524407297-wQA_?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop which was very well received, the rough cut can be found here Digital Innovation Hub resources - City of Wolverhampton College (wolvcoll.ac.uk) We also thank the symposium presenters but a separate article will be coming soon.
“I found the symposium to be incredibly enlightening. I learned a great deal and gained a deeper understanding of the latest advancements. It was a remarkable opportunity to hear from leading experts and engage with pioneering ideas.” Gary Media Group
Up and-coming Events
Harnessing AI, Green Technologies, and Cybersecurity - Transforming Industries for a Sustainable Future
AI, green technologies, and cybersecurity are poised to play transformative roles across a variety of industries. In sectors like automotive, media, and manufacturing, AI is already enhancing efficiency through automation, predictive maintenance, and personalized customer experiences. Green technologies, such as solar power, energy-efficient equipment, and sustainable materials, are pushing industries toward more eco-friendly practices. At the same time, cybersecurity has become increasingly critical as companies digitize their operations and adopt AI-driven tools. Businesses in sectors ranging from warehousing and storage to IT consultancy are recognizing the potential of these technologies to reduce environmental impact, enhance security, and drive sustainability.
However, despite the enthusiasm, many companies are still figuring out how to best leverage AI, green technologies, and cybersecurity within their operations. Concerns about job displacement, the need for staff training, and infrastructure limitations are common across industries.
Additionally, cybersecurity poses a significant challenge as companies adopt digital solutions but may lack the expertise to fully protect their systems. Businesses are eager for guidance on integrating these technologies safely and effectively, recognizing their potential to drive innovation while ensuring sustainability and security. (Seminar coming soon).
Future Goals ... Innovation and Sustainability Ambitions of Black Country Companies
The companies we spoke to expressed ambitious goals for innovation and sustainability over the next five years. Many aim to expand their market presence and increase profitability by leveraging advanced technologies like AI, automation, and IoT.
They plan to strengthen their brand recognition, grow their customer base, and capture a larger share of the UK market. Upskilling their workforce through partnerships with educational institutions and improving digital marketing strategies are also key priorities.
Additionally, integrating AI-driven solutions to optimize operations and enhance customer engagement is seen as critical to achieving long-term growth and success.
— David Facer, Senior Partner at Green Tech Hub
On the sustainability front, these companies are committed to reducing their carbon footprints and helping other businesses achieve their green goals. They plan to expand their green technology offerings, such as renewable energy solutions, energy-efficient products, and eco-friendly materials. Working from home offices and adopting sustainable practices are seen as essential steps toward minimizing environmental impact. Many aim to achieve carbon-neutral operations and lead their industries in green innovation, positioning themselves as leaders in both technological advancement and sustainability.
Watch this space
Additional case studies will be presented over the coming months, showcasing how companies are integrating AI, cybersecurity, and green technologies into their operations.
Contact Dr Sage Lal if your company needs support on AI, Green Tech and Cyber, if you are in the West Midlands we may be able to help you for Free!
Business Owner
6 个月Great to be a part of this project , thank you for the support and insights you have all given me over the past few months Sage Lal Conrad Taylor Petra Hosey myself and the team at Your Digital Hub Limited look forward to working with you all moving forward.
Passionate Development Expert; Researcher/ Lecturer on Business Management, Agribusiness, Food & Agricultural Systems, Economics, etc; University Teacher; African Diaspora Lead; Accredited Member, Int'l Trade Council...
6 个月I am happy to be part of this initiative Thanks for the share Sage Lal Conrad Taylor Petra Hosey
Revolutionising how SME’s scale up.
6 个月Empowering innovation, driving sustainable growth.
Certified Profit Acceleration Business Coach | Grow Profit | Improve Close Rate | Get Your Time Back | Scale to $1M—Without More Ad Spend or Hustle.
6 个月Incredible initiative for fostering innovation and overcoming barriers in the West Midlands. ??
Brilliant work - will look forward to helping!