Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Foundational Economy Innovation Fund has awarded £275,000 to a range of projects aiming to spark innovation in Greater Manchester’s 'foundational economy'.
25 businesses have been awarded grants of up to £11,000.
The 'foundational economy', or the 'everyday economy' refers to the parts of the economy people depend on for their daily needs, including the adult social care, early education and childcare, retail, and leisure and hospitality sectors.
The funding has been awarded to projects that drive innovation and improve productivity and working conditions.
Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council and Greater Manchester Lead for Economy, Business, and Inclusive Growth, said: “Our groundbreaking Foundational Economy Innovation Fund is supporting the sectors that underpin our communities and provide the essential products and services we use every day. We received lots of applications and we were really impressed by the ambition and creativity on show. The projects awarded funding are tackling the full range of challenges the foundational economy faces, and we look forward to seeing them turn their ideas into impact.”
Deepdale Technology is one of the recipients of funding. The business is building an app to help Greater Manchester’s local independent venues promote themselves with instant, time-sensitive deals during quiet periods.
Sam Howkins, director at Deepdale Technology, said: “We are creating a mobile app that connects people with Manchester's independent hospitality, leisure, retail and cultural venues – creating a very real win-win situation for all. The app offers local businesses a smarter way to market themselves and instantly combat quiet periods of trade, helping to boost footfall and reduce wasted hours, space and stock. While the end user can experience something new and maybe snap up a bargain or two in the process. We are exceptionally grateful for the support from GMCA. The grant funding is imperative in getting us to a point of BETA testing and to the next step closer to being able to support Manchester’s hospitality, cultural and tourism sector when they need it the most.”
CARE+ is developing a digital platform to co-ordinate volunteers and clients for hospital visits, household help and social activities, and a new Community Health and Care Skills Hub.
Citizens Advice SORT Group is building an AI-powered assistant using plain language to help people with disabilities and long-term health conditions complete forms and Coco Operative is testing an AI-enhanced digital tool to improve child protection planning, using input from those with lived experience.
