Innovation Challenge Day – Developing Clean Growth Solutions
9th Feb 2026, 9am
Design. Develop. Deliver.
This hands-on event welcomes founders, researchers, creatives, technologists and business teams who are ready to shape solutions with real-world impact.
Particpants should be ready to work collaboratively, tackle challenge briefs, generate and test ideas, and present early-stage solutions before the end of the day.
The challenge themes are grounded in the key sectors driving the future of clean growth:
· Digital & Data: AI, robotics, immersive technologies, satellite communications, 5G and advanced software
· Manufacturing: Automated systems, smart production and cutting-edge processes
· Clean Energy: Offshore renewables, hydrogen, nuclear, solar and wider low-carbon innovation
· Ports, Logistics & Transport: Smart port systems, sustainable logistics and future mobility
Who Can Take Part?
To participate fully in the programme, teams must have a physical presence within the Freeport East region, which spans key areas of Essex and Suffolk.
Why Take Part?
√ Turn Ideas into Action
Develop fresh concepts by working with others who share your appetite for innovation. You’ll choose from three thematic challenge areas designed to stretch your imagination and your problem-solving skills.
√ Learn from Specialists
Benefit from mentoring and practical support from experts who understand how to guide ideas from early concepts through to viable solutions.
√ Collaborate with Industry
Refine your thinking with input from industry partners, academic networks and experienced entrepreneurs who can help you shape ideas with commercial and societal value.
√ Showcase Your Vision
Present your solutions to investors, venture capital representatives, corporate innovation leads and organisations actively seeking new opportunities.
√ Progress Beyond the Day
Up to six promising ideas will receive an innovation support package. Finalists will then move into a focused development phase leading up to the showcase in May, where they will pitch refined, validated concepts to a high-profile audience.
What the Day Looks Like
09:00 – 09:30 Registration, refreshments and networking
09:30 – 09:45 Welcome and introduction
09:45 – 10:00 Challenge briefings
10:00 – 10:30 Team formation
10:30 – 10:45 Break and team introductions
10:45 – 12:15 Team working session
12:15 – 13:00 Working lunch
13:00 – 15:30 Continued development (optional check-in session available)
15:30 – 16:00 Team presentations
16:00 – 16:30 Break and judging deliberations
16:30 – 16:45 Winners announced
16:45 – 17:00 Next steps and support pathway
17:00 – 17:45 Networking drinks
Who Should Take Part?
• Founders and entrepreneurs ready to accelerate original ideas
• Startups and scaleups exploring new technologies or markets
• Students, researchers and innovators excited by collaborative problem-solving
• Professionals seeking new perspectives and opportunities
• Anyone keen to contribute to cleaner, smarter and more sustainable futures
Book your place and help shape what comes next.
The challenge day forms a key part of the Freeport East Clean Growth Pre-Accelerator, delivered by the University of Suffolk with support from Tech East and funded by the Freeport East Clean Growth Fund.
Organiser: University of Suffolk
