BUSINESSES across Dorset have the chance to benefit from the ideas of leading companies and business experts at a Festival of Innovation taking place at Bournemouth University on September 15.

The South West Regional Development Agency - in partnership with Bournemouth University, Business Link Wessex, the Institute of Directors and Dorset Business and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry - is supporting the 2pm event, which will focus on key themes of design, finance and business support in stimulating business innovation.

Keynote speeches will be delivered by Dr Ian Harrison from the DTI, who will talk about funding for business innovation; and Anthony Lilley, managing director of Magic Lantern, a small London-based company specialising in digital media content.

Mr Lilley has appeared on several government think-tanks, was chairman of the Digital Content Forum and is currently on the government's Creative Industries IPR task force. He will be discussing the importance of people and skills.

The festival will also feature case study presentations from three innovative local businesses, 20-minute hotspot workshops highlighting concepts and practices and a range of exhibitions supporting the themes.

Kay Homer, RDA head of operations for Bourne-mouth, Dorset and Poole, said the festival highlighted the agency's commitment to encouraging a culture of innovation in all sectors of business.

"The festival will provide businesses with a valuable insight into how innovation leads to business success," she said.

"There are special opportunities for innovation in the region, and it is vital that businesses, universities and business support agencies work together to identify and harness knowledge and new technologies to keep the South West competitive on a national and international stage."

David Willey, pro vice-chancellor (finance and corporate development) at Bournemouth University, fully supports the importance of collaborative working for innovation.

"Innovation is the key to the continuing success of Bournemouth University," he said.

"It means we continue to produce high-quality research of real value to business and allows the transfer of knowledge between the university and the business community within Dorset and beyond to the benefit of all."

Admission to the Festival of Innovation is free and includes refreshments and networking. But places are limited and must be reserved in advance from Jayne Askew at Bournemouth University on 01202 503812.

First published: September 2