Putting science and innovation at the heart of sustainable economic growth is a key driver for new ideas, new business and new solutions to societal issues. However, challenges remain. UK science funding is falling compared to key international competitors, and R&D costs are continuing to spiral. There is also a chronic shortage of skilled professionals amd a brain drain of leading talent, and investment programmes have been criticised for being too inefficient and costly. How can research institutions and the private sector come together, across disciplines and across international borders, to boost innovation?

The flagship EU Horizon 2020 programme has a €80bn budget and is part of the drive to create new growth and jobs across Europe. It aims to bring together the resources needed for excellence in research. In the UK, the yearly budget for science and research remains flat at £4.6bn; therefore, it is crucial that higher education and research institutions are linked to the relevant business sectors to help drive economic growth.

At Science Omega: Collaboration Culture, Driving Innovation high-profile speakers will promote collaboration and excellence in science, engineering and technology, highlighting funding and investment opportunities and the partnerships that can help to deliver success.