I-Construct is a supply chain development project designed to help local companies access the construction market. It introduces companies to new ways of doing business, offering expertise and influence in areas as diverse as offsite construction, renewable energy, digital technology, zero-carbon targets, business development strategy, robotics, and more.
To achieve this, I-Construct helps small businesses join local supply chains, access bidding opportunities, explore new client groups or business models, tap into technology, and launch products or services.
I-Construct mainly focuses on supporting businesses in the South East LEP area (which covers Essex, East Sussex and Kent) and the team will be based at a dedicated Innovation Hub in Braintree, Essex, that companies can use for business development and networking, and to try new technologies. The bespoke building has been designed to meet the highest environmental and sustainability standards, and will let companies understand how these can be achieved, and how offsite construction techniques can be incorporated into a building. The Innovation Hub will open in summer 2021.
Companies are eligible for I-Construct support if they are an SME working in or supplying to the construction and built environment sector or from a different sector and wanting to get into the industry.