As the home of MRI, The University of Nottingham has a long history of creating innovative solutions to the challenges the world poses us. Ingenuity18 is a journey of exploration, a re-engagement around the problems facing contemporary society, and a chance to discover disruptive and innovative solutions to how we address them. We’re looking to discover and develop the next generation of innovators in the UK, Malaysia and China, and equip them to go out into the world and lead change.

There is a range of events happening at the University from February — April 2018 that can help you realise your creative potential. Gain inspiration at the Ingenuity18 Ideas Summit, gain knowledge through the Ingenuity18 Innovation Diploma, and compete for the opportunity to pitch in front of a panel of investors.

For the first time ever, staff will also be able to apply to enter Ingenuity18, making it a fantastic opportunity for the whole University community to have their voice heard and develop their ideas for innovation. Working alongside colleagues, early career researchers, as well as students and alumni, it will be a chance to form unlikely allies, challenge perceptions, and make your mark on the innovation happening at the University.

Past students involved in the event have gone on to achieve amazing things: from the creation of affordable, high-quality defibrillators, to make-up brushes that empower cancer patients, and sustainable solutions to resource and energy crises around the world.

For these innovators, their entrepreneurial journey is not just about making money and being able to be their own boss. Their creativity and ambition enables them to tackle some of the biggest social and environmental injustices happening here in Nottingham, as well as in the wider world.

The value this can bring is exemplified through the work of last year’s Ingenuity competition winner, Emma Hartley. Since graduating from Product Design and Manufacturing in 2016, and dealing with the heartbreak of losing a friend and fellow student to cardiac arrest, she has gone on to develop a ground-breaking product that will enable defibrillators to become much more affordable and accessible.

“Every day, I realise more and more the impact my business could have on the world. If Pulse AED can save one person’s life, we have achieved our goal, and I’m going to keep pushing on until that happens.” — Emma Hartley, Pulse AED

If you have an idea for innovation that you want to explore and develop, and want to be part of events filled with like-minded people from the University, as well as world-class thinkers and industry innovators, make sure you get involved with Ingenuity18. Applications are now open.

Find out more about how to apply to Ingenuity18.

Ingenuity18 is open to all University of Nottingham students, alumni, early career researchers, and staff. Applications are open until Friday 26 January 2018.