Inside UMi

Does the UK Government’s ‘Small Business Plan’ live up to expectations?

On the 31 July, the UK Government launched its Small Business Plan that it hopes will unlock the full potential of the country’s 5.5 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Called “Backing Your Business”, the plan sets out a multi-year strategy aimed at helping SMEs grow, boost productivity, and navigate a smoother path to success. 

North Wales Clean Energy Fund opens

Ambition North Wales has launched its £24.6 million North Wales Clean Energy Fund, aimed at accelerating the region’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

UMi supports Northumbrian Water Group to drive biodiversity in new UK infrastructure projects

UMi supports Northumbrian Water Group to drive biodiversity net gain in UK infrastructure, leading a cross-sector sprint at the NWG Innovation Festival to deliver practical, scalable environmental solutions.

Tidal Services leads UK window cleaning’s tech revolution with Launchpad support

In an industry traditionally reliant on manual bookings and cash payments, Tidal Services is revolutionising the window cleaning sector through digital innovation. Working closely with Innovation SuperNetwork, powered by UMi, who support the delivery of the Launchpad, Tidal received strategic support in the form of one-to-one mentorship, participating in events, and pitching at the Northern Investor Hub.

UMi Impact Report 2024/25 - Going Further

At UMi, we believe that helping businesses go further means delivering more than just access to finance and great support. It means making a real difference to people, communities, and the world around us. Our latest Impact Report takes you inside that journey.

UMi supports new tech platform, Gig Lab, to bring their product to market

A new platform from Sunderland-based Ghostwriter Consultancy & Events is set to change the way promoters discover, book, and work with independent music venues, and thanks to support from the North East Digital Technologies Launchpad, funded by Innovate UK, they’re turning their bold vision into a commercial reality.

Powerhouse Perspective: Nicki Clark

A "Powerhouse Perspective" feature provides a comprehensive analysis of the Northern Powerhouse initiative, with this instalment focusing on our CEO, Nicki Clark.

Clean Energy Fund gets the green light

With support from UMi, North Wales is set to build on its strength as a leader in low-carbon energy, with a £24.6 million Clean Energy Fund.