A SPECIAL event is to be held in Worcester to help businesses shape innovation in the county.

Worcestershire Innovation Wednesday will take place on Wednesday, June 29 from 5pm until 8.30pm at University of Worcester Arena in Hylton Road and is called "8 minutes 20 seconds to launch" – the time it takes for the sun’s light to reach the earth. Attendee’s will be asked to shine a light on current activity, innovative networks and what is needed to bring these together to further promote innovation in the County.

The new WINN programme is designed to bring together networks of innovation communities and like-minded individuals to form successful collaborations, provide a vibrant and creative environment to inspire ideas and provide opportunities and assistance to launch new concepts. The session will provide details of proposed activity and attendees will have the opportunity to feedback and shape future plans.

WINN Wednesdays are part of the Worcestershire Innovation Programme formed by Worcestershire County Council and the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, QinetiQ, University of Worcester, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Birmingham Science City, Central Technology Belt, Malvern Hills Science Park and Malvern Instruments.

Gary Woodman, chief executive of Worcestershire LEP, said: “WINN Wednesdays are all about creating the right creative environment and support to allow innovation to flourish in the county. These events help local businesses to improve their productivity, create numerous business opportunities and provide a unique opportunity to network with like-minded individuals. The "8 minutes and 20 seconds to launch" event is now your opportunity to shape the WINN programme as a whole and I would encourage you to register for this event at the earliest opportunity.”

Cllr Dr Ken Pollock, cabinet member with responsibility for economy, skills and infrastructure at Worcestershire County Council said: "Innovation in business really helps to drive Worcestershire's economy, and communication, collaboration and networking are as vital to this effort as individual enterprise. The WINN event is a superb chance to work with others to stimulate business growth and generate new, innovative and exciting business opportunities. I would encourage those interested to register as soon as possible and help to shape the future of business innovation in Worcestershire."

Places are limited, however tickets are free of charge and businesses are encouraged to register at the earliest opportunity via www.winn-hub.com

Any questions about Worcestershire Innovation Wednesday can be sent to enquiries@wlep.co.uk and businesses can join the conversation on Twitter using #WorcsInnovation.