Local business awarded £50k to develop innovative new product

Global Air Dynamics, a renewable energy company in Fengate, will use the funding to help develop a new wind turbine technology.

Funding is now available to support local firms to trial products, technologies, services or solutions that help Peterborough work smarter through intelligent and sustainable growth. In particular, innovations that help SMEs operate more effectively are being sought.

The fund has been launched as part of the wider Peterborough DNA programme, which was awarded £3 million by the Technology Strategy Board last year to help demonstrate how a city of the future might work more effectively, efficiently and sustainably.

The objective is to help businesses turn ideas into commercially viable products and services and embed an innovation economy within the city.

Mario D’Andrea, founding director of Global Air Dynamics, said: “We are developing a compact, efficient and aesthetically pleasing wind turbine that can be used in urban settings as well as larger rural structures. The Test-Bed funding will provide us with the resources we need to bring our technology to market so that it can contribute towards the UK’s climate change target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050”.

Councillor Nigel North, Peterborough’s cabinet member for Communities and Environment Capital said: “The Test-Bed Fund is about more than simply rewarding smart ideas – we’re giving firms the unique ability to pioneer their innovations in a realistic business environment, free from financial strain. This is one of the many rewards for the people and businesses of Peterborough of being designated one of four Future Cities nationwide”

The Test-Bedding is to be carried out in Fengate and will contribute towards Peterborough DNA’s ongoing ‘Smart Fengate’ project, which is encouraging firms within the area to work closer together in order to increase trade, share ideas, and improve energy and resource efficiency.

There is an application process for any business interested in the Test-Bed Fund. To apply go to: https://www.brainwaveinnovations.co.uk/test-bed-fund/

This is a rolling fund and there are no specific deadlines for applications. Find out more by emailing: