DIGI-RAIL: booming with activity to support SMEs in the West Midlands

DIGI-RAIL, a £3.1 million ERDF-funded rail innovation programme, provides long-term innovation support to eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), on developing digital products and services from initial concepts through to market introduction, for the railway industry. In addition, the project offers ‘get into rail’ seminars to help all businesses access rail opportunities throughout the year.

Having successfully helped multiple businesses across a range of projects including sensors, big data management, safety equipment, track development and application development, the programme is now on track to develop new and exciting relationships with further businesses across some of the West Midlands region.

Rachel Eade MBE, Supply Chain Lead said: “We are ready to help both rail and non-rail companies to grow and access the rail sector by introducing the wide range of opportunities in track, rolling stock, technology, digital and infrastructure and need for innovation. We can help you understand the rail sector, the key players and various routes to market and support innovation projects.”

With innovation at the forefront of programme, the DIGI-RAIL team have confirmed a schedule of events to introduce businesses to R&D, technical and business support.

Thursday 5 March 2020

08.30 – 10.00am, breakfast event

DIGI-RAIL expands into the Black Country

Inviting all Black Country based SMEs/ supply chain businesses to learn about DIGI-RAIL, how you can benefit from the project, access potential funding and hear from businesses that have benefitted from DIGI-RAIL support. Book now

Thursday 12th March 2020

09.00am – 16.00pm, all day event Get into Digital Railway, and introduction to the Midland Metro Alliance

A unique and first-time opportunity for new to DIGI-RAIL businesses to learn about rail sector opportunities followed by introduction to the Midlands Metro expansion. To include a track side walk in Birmingham City Centre with an engineer. Rail and non-rail SMEs/supply chain businesses welcome, booking places are limited to 25 and will be confirmed within 24 hours of application.
Book now

Wednesday 18th March – Thursday 19th March 2020

All day event

Smart Sensor Systems for Digital Railways – Masterclass

The two-day masterclass will enable SMEs to develop a good understanding of different sensor systems, their applications, and how they can be embedded in developing smart products.
Book now

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