Skip to main content Go to Site Map

Innovation Studio

Foam Forge

Industry-engagement and our strong maker culture puts collaboration at the heart of everything we do.

Foam Forge

Testing new processes in thermoforming closed cell form. Supported by European Regional Development Funding (ERDF).

Waste foam is a significant issue and currently goes straight into landfill in the UK. There are large-scale foam recycling plants on the continent but the foam they produce is often not of brilliant quality and is only fit for filler. In 2018, Foam Forge were awarded AUB-ERDF Innovation funding to tackle this challenge.

Foam Forge, a central Dorset business, are exploring the manufacturing challenge by developing a recycling technique to create a durable high-quality foam that has manifold uses. This will reduce waste and make a major contribution to the sustainability of resources in the region. The company already specialise in the production of thermoforming closed cell foam products, many of which are designed for water sports activities, such as kayaking.

European Regional Development Funds

This project is supported through match-funding by the England European Regional Development Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. This fund was established by the European Union to help local areas stimulate their economic development. This investment will help to support innovation, businesses, skills and employment to improve local growth and create jobs. For more information visit www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding.

Explore the Innovation Studio

Innovation Studio, photographed by Richard Bryant. Photo of an exterior wall with two reverse-L shaped windows and three semi-circle panels visible. A person walks past towards the right.

Overview

The Innovation Studio operates as a lab for creative technologies, a nucleus for start-ups and enterprises and an industry engagement hub.

Two people stand and look at a collection of lit-up transparent boxes stacked on top of one another.

Events

A series of workshops and lectures for industry professionals to develop innovation and creative capabilities.

Abstract image

Projects

Take a look at some of our recent collaborative projects with external partners and businesses

Sunseeker employee working on schematics of a boat

Associate Programme

Our Associate Programme offers membership of our Innovation Studio to regional businesses seeking research and development support.

People putting post its on a window

Pre Start-Up Programme

Our Pre Start-Up Programme offers membership for creative individuals or businesses looking to develop new products or services.

Innovation Studio, photographed by Richard Bryant. Photo of an interior space, with several people sat working at tables. A rectangle-shaped railing is in the middle of the room.

Creative Technologies

The Innovation Studio features state-of-the-art equipment and digital resources, and the latest manufacturing technology.