Get Funded Without Investors: How Grants Can Kickstart Your Startup
Overview
Grant funding can be a game-changer for startups, but many founders don’t know where to start. This session will break down the process, where to find grants, how to apply, and what makes a winning bid, without the jargon. Expect to find out what grants are currently available, a mix of expert insights, real-world founder experiences, and practical advice. Grant funders, successful applicants, and bid writers will share their knowledge, making this an invaluable session for anyone looking to fund their business without giving away equity.
Speakers


Dominique’s consultancy firm offers a comprehensive suite of innovation support services including business innovation funding strategy, grant application coaching and writing.
Through her support and guidance, Dominique has directly enabled her clients to secure over £28 million in innovation funding. She is also contracted Innovate UK grant application assessor and regularly works as an expert under contract with the European Commission, supporting Horizon Europe evaluations.
Dominique holds a PhD in Semiconductor Fabrication and amassed over 15 years of industrial experience in developing new manufacturing processes within the photonics, electronics, and renewable energy sectors.
During her time as Head of Research for a renewable energy SME, she acquired extensive knowledge of Innovate UK and EC innovation grant processes, excelling in writing successful funding applications and managing large, collaborative innovation projects.

In Gemma's current role at Business Durham, she has a deep understanding of tourism trends and has helped many tourism businesses grow, innovate, and thrive in competitive markets. Gemma can quickly get to grips with your business, and the heart of a problem.
Gemma has worked with clients on various funding programs such as Virgin Unite, Start Up Loans, Durham Business Growth Programme, and many more. Her understanding of the intricacies of public funding and UK Subsidy Control rules means she is well-positioned to help you with shaping your project and applying for funding. Gemma is excited to drive tourism business growth, contributing to economic growth within the region.

I recently raised £90k to fully fund the MVP of Gig Lab, our new tech platform for independent venues, backed by UKSPF funds and an Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award.
Registration
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How to get involved
Please read the information back below, and then fill out an expression of interest form. This will let us know you’d like to take part, what age the participating children are and whether you’d like any support from us or an ‘industry mentor.’
Plan your challenge, consider your resources and the participating students. Challenges can be completed in small or large groups. but please be aware that only 8-10 students from selected schools will be able to attend the celebration event.
Submit your challenge responses via our online form below. Your school can submit up to 10 entries. The deadline for responses is Friday 9 May, 2025. Please get in touch if you are struggling to meet the deadline.
The Schools Challenge steering committee will identify a small group of students from selected schools to be invited to a celebration event on the morning of Friday 20 June at South Shields Customs House.
If selected, you will be invited to attend by 23 May. There will also be an opportunity to display students‘ work as part of a number of public
exhibitions across local authority areas.
If you have any issues, contact us via email: getinvolved@technext.co.uk