Seven universities and colleges created a partnership, in form of the EIRA project, to help enable businesses in the region. Led by the University of Essex, the project was awarded £4.7m from Research England’s Connecting Capability Fund to continue research into artificial intelligence, biotechnology and digital creative.

The EIRA, meaning Enabling Innovation: Research to Application, aims to drive growth and increasing productivity in the East of England by encouraging co-operation between businesses and educational institutes. It hopes to help businesses of all sizes in the three key areas identified by the group. Support given to businesses will include Innovation Vouchers and Research and Development Grants.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming all sectors of our economy,” director of EIRA, Kirstie Cochrane, explained. “Biotechnology is having an impact on everything from food production to medicine and the East of England is recognised as the center of excellence in the digital creative sector”.

Director of the Research and Enterprise Office at the University of Essex, Vanessa Cuthill said “As the lead institution, we’re excited that Essex researchers will have new ways to support businesses across all three key themes. With our reputation and experience in successfully connection research expertise with business needs this project can eb really transformational for our region”.