Innovation Special – How to be the Next Big Thing

Innovation isn’t just for labs or tech giants – it’s for founders who are ready to think differently, explore new ideas, and take bold steps towards growth. But we know the world of R&D and innovation can feel overwhelming and out of reach… and so often, we don’t realise we can tap into the innovation ecosystem, local universities, and government grants, even if we’re not alumni. That’s exactly what this event is here to change. This event is a collaboration between The 51% Club, the University of Birmingham and Innovate UK.

Join us for two hours of practical insights, inspiring stories, and clear pathways to help you turn innovation into your next big advantage.
 

Here’s what you’ll gain:


✨ Clarity on R&D – What it really means, and how founders like you can use it to scale products and ideas.


✨ Innovation Stories – A real-life insight and practical steps to help you navigate your own journey with support from Innovate UK, the University of Birmingham and other partners.


✨ Diverse Founder Journeys – Honest conversations about breaking barriers, entering tech, and thriving as women in innovation.


✨ Support & Opportunities – From Innovate UK funding to partnerships with universities and The 51% Club, discover what’s available to you right now. 

  🎤 A morning meeting with trailblazing women: 


• Helen Lau, Director – Business Engagement and Research Impact, University of Birmingham
• Emma Taylor-Steeds, Head of Inclusive Innovation Communities – Innovate UK Business Connect 
• Tara Attfield-Tomes, Founder – The 51% Club & EAST VILLAGE. 
• Ilisha Masaun, Econominds – Winner, 2024 Women in Innovation Award 
• Minnie A Nguyen, BarberBoss – KTP partner driving innovation through collaboration 
• Aditi Desai, Co-Founder of iCount – Winner, Innovate UK Smart Grant & West Midlands Health Technology Accelerator Grant 
• Joanna Bucknall, Co-Founder of Immersive Theatre Experience & Associate Professor, University of Birmingham

What to expect on the day:
☕ 9-10am: Registration, refreshments & informal networking
👋 10-10:10am: Welcome & introduction
💡 10:10-10:20am: An introduction to Innovate UK
🎤 10:20-11:15am: Founder stories & Q&A
🤝 11:15-12pm: Roundtable discussions & networking.                                                                                                                                       🥗 12-1pm: Buffet-style lunch & continued networking

Who’s it for?
Female founders and leaders who want to explore innovation (even if tech feels a little intimidating!), scale their businesses, and uncover how R&D can unlock their next stage of growth.

This won’t be jargon-heavy or theory-led – just real, relatable insights, actionable opportunities, and stories from women who’ve been there.

🎟️ Spaces are limited – secure your spot today and take your next step towards becoming the next big thing. CLICK HERE!