Innovation and Clusters

Innovation is the successful exploitation of new ideas and an important driver of economic growth. Successful innovation creates customer value through new products, services and processes, giving rise to new markets and economic growth, as well as contributing to higher productivity, lower costs, increased profits and employment.

The central role of innovation in creating future prosperity and quality of life is widely acknowledged and accepted. Innovation is at the heart of European and UK economic development policy, and is a major focus for investment across the UK.

EKOS brings in-depth knowledge and understanding of the wider policy context as well as leading thinking on innovation theory and practice.

We have worked extensively with clients on developing and evaluating multiple innovation support mechanisms, including building knowledge transfer strategies to closely engage business and academia, and city-region innovation support mechanisms. EKOS also brings a deep understanding of Clusters and Innovation networks having worked closely with partners in the UK and across Europe to develop strong cluster strategies and implement effective improvement interventions.

Innovation

New models of innovation and a wider understanding of how to build innovative capacity in organisations is essential to help economies grow. EKOS is experienced at working with clients and partners to build an understanding of the role of innovation in economic and social development and in developing policies and interventions that encourage an innovative economy.

Higher Education

At EKOS, we not only understand the challenges and opportunities facing our universities, but have wide experience of working with HEIs and funding agencies on projects relating to teaching and learning, research and commercialisation, knowledge exchange, and public engagement.  The role and impact of universities in national and regional economies is widely acknowledged, and we work closely with public sector partners to develop, appraise and evaluate projects and programmes focusing on higher education’s role in economic and social regeneration.

Clusters and Key Industries

EKOS is leading the thinking on cluster development, and is working with an international base of clients to identify strong sectors and to bring together the key elements needed to build a strong cluster and support its growth.  We provide research and consultancy support across a range of key industries, including creative industries, tourism, financial services, life sciences, food and drink, and energy. Collaboration, new forms of innovation and understanding the development of trust are core to these programmes, and we bring an understanding of the complex nature of evaluating the growth of social capital.

 

Examples of recent research studies

To find out more please email or call 0141 353 8319