If your business has a problem that has left you scratching your head, then the European Study Group with Industry could be the answer.
The event, hosted by the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Durham University and the Smith Institute is running from April 11th - 15th on the University's campus, and will see some of the best and brightest academics take on the mathematical problems that are holding back businesses.
Businesses from the North East have the opportunity to submit their problem to a panel, who will then decide which eight make it to the University. The business will then present their problem to the experts, who will spend the week going over the issue in depth and attempting to find a solution.
By the end of the week the panel assigned to your business will present their suggestions for moving forward and a solution, providing one has been found. Over the weeks following this, a written report is produced detailing their work on the problem and the steps they advise you take as business.
Although there's no guarantee of the problem being solved, the website for the event does state that in every case so far significant progress has been made. It also suggests that the business have often continued to collaborate with the academics on the issue presented after the event has closed.
All this help doesn't come cheap, and the cost of participation (if your proposal is accepted) is £7,500, which will be a heavy investment for some businesses. However, the primary submission of your problem is free. The issue can be almost anything, from any industry - providing that the problem has a grounding in mathematics, statistics or probability. Subjects considered in previous years include flight efficiency, advanced campaign planning and complex equation solving using computers.
If your business problem could use a fresh pair of eyes, get in touch with the organisers here. They will be happy to discuss your issue, and how this event could help your business. If the problem you're experiencing is IT related, feel free to give us a call on 0191 482 0444 for help with your proposal.
