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Green+ Network Launch & Funding Sandpit

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What to expect

Launch the future of green technology at the EPSRC Green+ Network's inaugural event in Birmingham. This two-day intensive brings together researchers, technologists, green space professionals, and community organisations to co-create solutions for smarter, healthier, and more inclusive outdoor spaces — with competitive funding of up to £35,000 available for the best interdisciplinary proposals.

Day 1: Network Launch (11 June 2026)

The opening day welcomes all registered participants to Birmingham Botanical Gardens for a full programme of keynotes, demonstrations, and structured co-creation sessions. You'll hear from Declan Hadley (Healthcare Lead UKI, Cisco), Gian Marco Iodice (Distinguished Engineer in Edge and Mobile Computing, Arm), and Professor Samuel Brockington (Curator, Cambridge University Botanic Garden, University of Cambridge). These talks will showcase cutting-edge applications of technology in healthcare, mobile computing, and botanical research — providing practical context for the collaborative work ahead.

Following the keynotes, participants split into cross-sector teams for hands-on co-creation sessions. The venue itself becomes a living lab: Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers a real-world setting to prototype ideas around sensor networks, accessibility technology, environmental monitoring, community engagement platforms, and digital interpretation systems. Whether you're exploring AI-powered species identification, IoT infrastructure for park management, or inclusive design for neurodivergent visitors, you'll work alongside people who can help turn concepts into deployable solutions.

Day 2: Funding Sandpit (12 June 2026)

The second day operates as a competitive funding sandpit (10:00–17:00) for selected academics and supported representatives from partner organisations. Attendance at Day 1 is required — the launch day's networking and co-creation sessions form the foundation for Day 2's rapid proposal development.

Teams will refine their Day 1 concepts into research proposals, working through technical feasibility, partnership structures, and real-world implementation pathways. EPSRC Green+ Network funding of up to £35,000 per project is available for the most promising interdisciplinary collaborations. Final pitches take place on 22 June 2026, giving teams time to polish their submissions after the sandpit.

Note: The funding sandpit is now operatin

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