Innovation Marketplace for Business

Unlock opportunities. Build connections. Accelerate your growth.

Join us for the first-ever GM Colleges Business Innovation Marketplace, co-hosted by The Manchester College, Tameside College and Trafford & Stockport College Group, taking place on Tuesday 16th September at the iconic Manchester Hall.

This unique event brings together Greater Manchester’s leading innovation ecosystem under one roof!

What to expect

• A buzzing marketplace of innovation experts - who can help you discover support, funding and innovation opportunities - see lineup for details.
• Be inspired – find fresh ideas, partnerships, and solutions to help your business grow.
• Connect with like-minded SMEs - a great opportunity to meet and network with other ambitious SMEs in the Manchester, Tameside, Trafford & Stockport areas.
• Experience Manchester Hall – a stunning, historic venue in the heart of the city.
• Enjoy light refreshments – complimentary tea, coffee and a light breakfast will be served.

What you’ll take away

• New contacts & connections – expand your local business network with potential collaborators, suppliers and partners.
• Actionable insights – discover funding streams, training, digital tools and innovation programmes tailored to SMEs.
• A clear roadmap – learn what practical next steps you can take to grow, scale and innovate your business.
• Exclusive follow-up opportunities – get direct access to experts who can continue supporting your journey.

These fully funded events are sponsored by Innovate UK and GM Colleges to support business innovation in Greater Manchester. Priority will be given to SMEs based in the boroughs of Manchester, Tameside, Trafford and Stockport, as they are the main focus for this event.

About Greater Manchester Colleges Business Innovation Hubs

The Greater Manchester Colleges Business Innovation Hubs are funded by Innovate UK through the Further Education Innovation Programme (FEIP). Their purpose is to help SMEs across Greater Manchester connect, collaborate and access the tools they need to bring innovative ideas to life.

By championing innovation within local businesses, these College Hubs aim to build a thriving & connected innovation ecosystem. This includes creating clear pathways for businesses to access the skills and talent, finance and investment and wider support required to drive change and growth - supported by strong networks across clusters, sectors and places.

Would you like to take your business forward with fresh ideas and innovation? Contact your local Business Innovation Hub today to discover how we can help your business grow and thrive.

• Tameside - Pam.Mistry@Tameside.ac.uk
• Stockport - Hilary.Orr@tscg.ac.uk

• Trafford - Georgina.Mills@tscg.ac.uk

• Manchester City Centre – RPotter@tmc.ac.uk