How it works

1. Check your eligibility using the guidance here.

If you're unsure about eligibility contact the University’s Business Engagement team via innovation@essex.ac.uk.

2. Identify a challenge or opportunity you want to explore.

Once you have something in mind express your interest in creating a project by filling in our online form here.

3. Scope your project.

A member of the University’s Business Engagement team will be in touch to talk about your idea and cybersecurity challenges. They will help you formalise your thoughts and check we have the right expertise to help you.

4. Apply using our simple application form.

This will be supplied by Essex’s Business Engagement team following discussions about your potential project for you to complete and submit for consideration. 

5. Get a decision.

We will aim to assess applications within two weeks and provide feedback on all applications whether successful or not.

6. Start your project!

If your project is approved, the Business Engagement team will continue to work closely with you using a structured assess-report-strategise-deliver framework, receiving supervision from senior academic staff at the University.

You will have access to talented researchers who can be deployed on a range of business challenges and opportunities. They will manage the project with you, setting KPIs and objectives and keeping delivery on track.

Outputs will vary between projects and an Innovation Roadmap detailing next steps and future funding opportunities will be a minimum outcome for each project.

If you'd like to find out more or talk to a member of our team about your business's eligibility, complete our expression of interest form here.