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Bridging the Gap’s aim is to help young London-based businesses develop the skills, knowledge and networks needed to succeed, using the resources and connections of the university. It’s particularly (but not exclusively) relevant to solo entrepreneurs.

BtG can help to drive a start-up forward, through mentorship from experienced mentors and a flexible training programme to fast track an idea. It can also help with pitching opportunities to raise awareness and generate possible collaborative projects with students and academics to refine and enhance the idea.

The programme is co-funded by Brunel University London and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

• the gap  between a strong final year/post-graduate project with potential, and its success as a viable business
• between the knowledge of the university and it being accessed and used successfully by SMEs

• the gap between male-and female-owned businesses, particularly (although not exclusively) in the Science, Technology, Engineering (Arts) and Mathematics (STE(A)M) sectors
• and between enthusiastic start-ups and their position three years later

The European Regional Development Fund

The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) is a perfect funding partner as one of its four key priority areas is support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ERDF is specifically focussed on investment to support economic growth and job creation, with other priorities outside of BtG including innovation and research, the digital agenda and the low-carbon economy.

This EU funding makes it possible to offer free tailored workshops, access to specialised research facilities and support in accessing innovation funding.

A companion programme to Bridging the Gap, Co-Innovate Journeys also supports young London-based SMEs and entrepreneurs focusing on connecting these groups to research practices at Brunel University London both academic and student.