HOVIP - Heads of the Valley Innovation Programme

Heads of the Valley Innovation Programme

A Unique Opportunity to Become More Profitable

Testimonials

"Joining the Innovation Programme is a massive eye opener, very creative and the content is outstanding. I don't think that there is an organisation that wouldn't benefit. A massive thumbs up!"

D. Davies, Abergavenny Fine Foods Ltd.

Social Enterprises Case Studies

We are currently recruiting social enterprises to HOVIP with help from Community Enterprise Wales and Business in the Community.

Social Enterprises, like other SMEs, have previously benefited from the innovation services that are being preferentially delivered via HOVIP, for example:

  • Identifying new streams of income
  • Helping trustees develop new business skills
  • Enhancing products and services
  • Improving the ability of organisations to engage volunteers and local communities
  • Enhancing partnership and team working (e.g. a Senior Learning Manager from the former ELWa organisation commented that all community based groups should utilise these creative thinking and group working techniques)

“I have gained techniques for instigating discussion and decision making and will use in future staff meetings.”

Gill Clarke, Acting General Manager, Candy Stripes Day Nursery.

“I gained insight / knowledge of new tools to look at encouraging innovation and participation.”

Nicola Mahoney, Business Manager, Safer Merthyr Tydfil.

“New innovative and creative ways of marketing and promotion. Good mix involving voluntary and private sectors. Will apply to my business support sessions and own personal development. Definitely recommend.”

Adama Sesay, Social Economy Development Officer, Merthyr Tydfil CBC.

  • BT
  • HSBC Bank plc
  • NGB
  • NESTA
  • Wales Quality Centre

Heads of the Valleys Innovation Programme (HOVIP) aims to increase the capacity for innovation in businesses in the region. Phase 1 was KEF ESF Funded and hosted by Merthyr Tydfil College. HOVIP2 is supported by the Welsh Assembly Government HoV Regeneration initiative and is hosted by Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council.