Who can apply?
Do I have to be a Limited Company to apply?
No, any individual, sole trader, partnership or Limited Company can apply as long as they are employing less than 50 people.
What area does the Merseyside Innovation awards cover?
Our focus is on supporting innovation that can bring benefits to Merseyside region and we are happy receive applications for all parts of Merseyside as well as the adjacent areas of Ormskirk, Skelmersdale, Halton, Warrington, Chester. Applicants from the surrounding areas should be aware that part of the scoring criteria is based on the innovations expected “Impact on Merseyside” and try to demonstrate this impact as clearly as possible in their application.
I live in Merseyside but my office is outside, can I apply?
Yes, but please be aware that part of the scoring criteria is based on the expected 'Impact on Merseyside' so if your innovation is likely to be have a positive impact on Merseyside then it is more likely to attract a higher score. so try to demonstrate this impact as clearly as possible in your application.
I am a sole trader, can I apply?
Yes
How do I know if my idea is unique to me?
You'll need to carry out a search in the relevant technical field/industry. For a comprehensive search, speak to your patent attorney. However, you can obtain a strong indication from a review of the publications in the relevant technical field/industry and internet searches, for example, a key-word search on your favourite internet search engine and “espacenet”, a patent-specific database.
Does the innovation have to be a product?
No, the innovation can be a service as long as there is something new to it!
Can my innovation be a service?
Yes – there has to be something new about it to be eligible.
I run a franchise which is innovative, can I apply?
It would be the head office, if based in Merseyside, that could apply, not individual franchisees.
Do I have to have my innovation patented?
No, but it is useful to know if you have a patent pending, intend to do so, or have some other effective means of protecting the intellectual property in your innovation. We may be able to help with initial advice.
I have a brilliant innovative idea but its not ready for market yet, should I apply?
It's always best if there's more than just an idea but if you are close to getting to market then it is worth applying. One section of the scoring criteria awards points based on commercial viability so this can influence the final outcome. If you'd like to apply, your idea will remain confidential, and we may even be able to help!
I applied last year, is it worth re-applying this year?
If your innovation has developed significantly, changed in some way or you have increased levels of business then it may well be worth applying again. Either way its only a short form to apply so it has to be worth a go!