The monthly coworking drop-in events at MK:U Innovation Hub are attracting a diverse and enthusiastic crowd of freelancers and entrepreneurs.
The events facilitate networking opportunities and provide insightful sessions on entrepreneurship and succeeding with business grants.
At the most recent drop-in event in June, bringing together talented individuals from a range of industries including marketing, technology, sustainability and design, attendees were able to learn more about the challenges and triumphs of owning a business.
The panel of members, including Oliver Waters (protospace), Charlotte Moyle (MK Girl Network), Kapil Madan (Dynamatix), and Sean Ruane (Mind Data) gave insight to their remarkable business journeys and offered a unique perspective on the realities of entrepreneurship. The afternoon talk was led by Makayla Combes from Ad Valorem Group, providing small business owners with crucial guidance on applying for business grants.
MK:U has organised a series of events that showcase the variety of talents within our local community. From digital art showcases to cutting-edge robot demonstrations, these ventures spark engaging discussions and help people keep up to date with local achievements in Milton Keynes.
MK:U Innovation Hub Collaboration Space
MK:U’s Innovation Hub opened in March 2022 helping small businesses and innovators develop and grow their ideas. The hub provides working professionals with a friendly space to complete work tasks, find connections, and explore new skills.
It showcases new and interesting innovations – in particular, those related to robotics. Through regular events and demonstrations, innovators can discover new ways to embed emerging technologies in their businesses.
The building in Bouverie House on Silbury Boulevard offers modern hot desking free of charge, so if you are having a quick client meeting in central Milton Keynes, or are in need of an alternative space for work, make sure to register as a member. The premium facilities include access to photo equipment and a podcast room, as well as a fully equipped workshop where you can 3D print prototypes, or use a t-shirt press for clothing designs.
MK:U Apprenticeships
As well as bringing local business communities together, MK:U is helping build the next generation of skills for our region. MK:U, being developed in partnership by Milton Keynes City Council and Cranfield University, focuses on new technologies and widening participation in STEM. It currently offers Level 6 degree apprenticeships including: Chartered Manager, Cyber Security, Data Scientist and Digital and Technology Solutions.
The Level 6 degree apprenticeship offering was praised by Ofsted inspectors following an initial monitoring visit in October. The report highlighted the high-quality curriculum which is in tune with the needs of businesses, the support, and expert staff that learners have access to, and the career progression that apprentices go on to achieve.
Learn more about the MK:U apprenticeship offer.
