Three-month project opportunities

Keele University has become a unique “living laboratory” – a Smart Energy Network Demonstrator (SEND) - which demonstrates how energy can be generated and managed intelligently at scale, helping to reduce the campus’ carbon emissions.   

As part of its mission, in partnership with Siemens, to drive new research and development along with business growth, dedicated research teams and graduate researchers are teaming up with small and medium sized enterprises based in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. Working with businesses on a range of innovation projects linked to sustainability and energy reduction and management. 

Keele can offer options for short interventions (up to 70 hours) to longer projects (up to 465 hours) for research, development, and innovation projects. Our talented researchers will work specifically on your sustainability project, backed up by a team of knowledgeable and experienced experts to support you from project to completion.

The projects are fully-funded through a partnership with Keele University, ERDF and the Midlands Engine, meaning the only cost is your participation time. Get in touch today to check your eligibility and discuss your project needs.

The funding means that only eligible businesses can participate. The criteria are below, however if you're not sure, please complete the form and we will work with you to check. 

Eligibility Criteria: 

• have fewer than 250 employees; 
• have a turnover less than 50m euros or balance sheet less than 43m euros; 
• applicants must be an owner, director or employee of a registered business in the Stoke-on-Trent or Staffordshire area; 
• unfortunately, certain sectors are ineligible. Examples include finance, retail, and agriculture. 

By participating in the Keele SEND project, you'll have access to a talented researcher working specifically on your sustainability project, backed up by a team of knowledgeable and experienced experts. You'll receive support from initial idea to completion and be part of the Smart Energy Network Demonstrator programme. 

Absolutely! We understand that every business is unique, and you may have specific sustainability goals or challenges that you're looking to address. That's why we offer fully-funded support to help you achieve your sustainability goals, whether you know the exact input needed from our expert team or don't know where to start.  

If you're unsure how the Keele SEND project can benefit your business, please complete the enquiry form on this page, and one of our team members will be in touch to discuss the opportunities available. We'll work with you to understand your business's needs and provide guidance on how the project can help you achieve your goals.