LOCAL businesses are being asked for their feedback on the recent Worcestershire Innovation (WINN) Wednesday event to help shape the future of innovation in the county.

The networking platform, called "8 minutes 20 seconds to launch", brought together an audience from more than 100 businesses at the University of Worcester Arena. The event was given its name to reflect the time it takes for the sun’s light to reach the earth, as attendees were asked to shine a light on current activity, innovative networks and what is needed to bring these together to further support innovation in the county.

Gary Woodman, chief executive of Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: "It was great to see so many businesses in attendance for the latest WINN Wednesday event. These free-to-attend events play a vital role in shaping the support for innovation in the county and boosting business productivity. I would urge local businesses to complete the questionnaire at the earliest opportunity and have their say on the future of innovation in Worcestershire.”

Cllr Dr Ken Pollock, cabinet member with responsibility for economy, skills and infrastructure at Worcestershire Council, added: "Many local businesses are attending Worcestershire Innovation Wednesday as they find the highly-knowledgeable and creative business environment a stimulus to their own plans for innovation. I would encourage more local businesses to involve themselves in these showcases to hear from others and to share their own views. Save the dates for the upcoming events on September 28 and November 30.”

WINN Wednesdays are part of the WINN Programme formed by Worcestershire County Council and the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, QinetiQ, University of Worcester, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Birmingham Science City, Central Technology Belt, Malvern Hills Science Park and Malvern Instruments.

To help to shape the county’s support for innovation, visit the WINN Wednesday website and complete the questionnaire at www.winn-hub.com Whilst feedback will be ongoing, the first set of feedback is required by July 31.