NWSLC launches autumn events to help local businesses innovate and grow

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands are being invited to tap into a programme of free and practical events this autumn, designed to unlock growth and boost innovation.

As part of the Driving SME Innovation in the West Midlands programme, North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) is working in collaboration with Coventry College, Stratford-upon-Avon College and Warwickshire College Group (WCG) to help local firms embrace new technologies and skills.

Funded through the Further Education Innovation Fund by Innovate UK, the initiative is focused on digital and green innovation and aims to drive economic growth, create high-quality jobs and make innovation accessible for businesses of all sizes.

Through a mix of in-person and online workshops, employers can gain hands-on experience and insight into emerging sectors such as electric vehicle (EV) technology and artificial intelligence (AI).

Businesses will also be introduced to the wide-ranging support available via NWSLC and its partners, including access to innovation centres, training opportunities and expert knowledge transfer.

Charlotte Ward, Innovation Practitioner at NWSLC, said: “SMEs are the backbone of our local economy, but too often they face barriers when it comes to innovation. These events are about making innovation practical, accessible and relevant for small businesses.

“Whether you’re a garage looking to upskill for EVs or a business exploring the potential of AI, our team is here to show you what’s possible and give you the tools to make it happen.”

 

Upcoming events:

 

Showcasing the future of automotive training  – Monday 6 October, 1pm – 4pm, Rugby College

Discover how your business can prepare for the future of automotive through live demonstrations, interactive training zones and expert Q&A. Book here

 

Innovation for Business Growth Clinics – Tuesday 14 October and Tuesday 25 November, 8am – 10am, University of Warwick at Coventry College

Find out how to improve or grow your business and build a personal roadmap tailored to your business. Book here

 

NWSLC Employer Open Event – Thursday 16 October, 5pm – 7pm, MIRA Technology Institute

An open evening for employers to explore the support available through NWSLC’s innovation centre, meet the team and find out how your business can benefit from Innovate UK’s Further Education Innovation Fund. Supported by Warwickshire Skills Hub. Book here

 

Boost your garage revenue with EV servicing (NWSLC) – Monday 20 October, 3pm – 8pm (45-minute sessions), MIRA Technology Institute

In partnership with Delphi Academy, this hands-on Tesla workshop will give small garage owners, independent technicians and workshop managers the confidence to service and maintain EVs. Book here

 

Build an AI Assistant in 90 Minutes (NWSLC) – Tuesday 21 October, 9:30am – 11:30am, MIRA Technology Institute

A practical in-person workshop where businesses can learn how to develop and deploy their own AI assistant to support sales and manage administration more efficiently. Book here

 

AI for Digital Marketing (NWSLC) – Monday 10 November 2025, 2pm, Online

An online session exploring how SMEs can use AI tools to strengthen digital marketing strategies, save time and maximise engagement. Book here

 

To find out more visit www.nwslc.ac.uk/innovate/ or email [email protected]