From Ideas to Impact: How Salford Innovation Forum Helped Businesses Grow in Q1

At Salford Innovation Forum, we believe that founders need more than advice – they need meaningful support to bring their ideas to life. That’s why our Q1 activity focused on tailored one-to-one coaching, powerful peer learning, and hosting a global event that put Salford on the map for green innovation.

In total, we supported 41 local businesses in the first quarter, with 12 receiving in-depth consultancy and coaching to overcome critical growth challenges. From refining investment pitches to launching new brands, we helped entrepreneurs make confident decisions and take practical steps forward.

Real Results, Real Businesses

Running a startup can feel like juggling everything at once – funding, marketing, product, and planning. That’s why we offer focused, hands-on support where it’s most needed. Whether you’re shaping your brand, building a product, or seeking investment, we help cut through the noise and get things moving.

One-to-One Business Support

We worked intensively with 12 businesses this quarter, offering tailored support to help founders overcome barriers and accelerate growth. Our sessions covered:

• Investor readiness and funding access
• Branding and market positioning
• Product design and prototyping
• Marketing strategy and digital tools
• AI integration and workflow optimisation.

These targeted sessions help founders turn ambitious ideas into investable businesses.

Customer Growth through Content Creation Cirlce

Building visibility online can be one of the hardest parts of growing a business, but it’s also one of the most powerful. That’s why we created the Content Creation Circle, a structured peer programme designed to help founders master their digital presence.

What started as an informal meetup is now a focused, hands-on support space where businesses:

• Build 30-day content calendars and plan campaigns with confidence
• Learn practical techniques for creating content and growing audiences
• Get feedback on live campaigns and optimise in real time
• Explore co-marketing opportunities and strategic referrals
• Understand how to make the most of platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and emerging channels.

Participants leave with actionable strategies they can implement immediately and many are already reporting new customers, referrals, and stronger brand visibility as a result.

Global Opportunities: ECO-ENERGY & AI Forum (Green Days)

Innovation isn’t just about what happens inside one business – it’s also about the networks and opportunities around it. That’s why we hosted the ECO-ENERGY & AI Forum, a high-profile international event exploring how technology is driving sustainability.

The five-day event brought together 50+ participants, including diplomats, researchers, and business leaders, for deep-dive sessions on:

• Smart grid technology and cybersecurity
• Sustainable agriculture and green innovation
• AI-powered energy optimisation.

The forum featured renowned experts and decision-makers, from Ambassador Ndolamb Ngokwey of the DRC and Mayor Paul Dennett, to leading researchers from Manchester Metropolitan University. It helped forge powerful international links, particularly with partners across Africa, and opened new opportunities for collaboration and investment for local businesses.