Forging Links

Forging Links is a new network designed to connect spinout founders with the ecosystem from across the Midlands and beyond.

What is Forging Links?

Being a spinout founder comes with unique challenges as you navigate balancing research and academic duties with the pursuit of setting up an IP-rich business. The purpose of this network is to provide you with the support system to navigate this and vital contacts to unlock new opportunities. 

  • Be inspired by the journeys of other spinout founders and meet potential collaborators. 
  • Be informed by themed events focusing on relevant topics and connect with service providers who can help reach the next stages. 
  • Raise your profile and build relationships with investors. 
  • Validate and stress-test your innovations with the market, linking with industry and corporates; your potential supply chain or customers. 
People networking in a brightly lit room and posing in front of a purple backdrop that reads 'Forging Links' in large white lettering.
The launch of Forging Links took place in May 2026. Photography: Jason Hier

Are you a spinout founder?

We launched this network with a Mixer event for spinouts and university commercialisation teams from the Forging Ahead partnership at the National Automotive Innovation Centre at the University of Warwick.

Are you part of the ecosystem?

Rhianna Briars

Rhianna Briars

Network Manager