Running for the second year in 2007 the successful Innovative Routes to Market programme started in February 2007 with some exciting new changes.
This yearly programme is aimed at anyone wishing to get further assistance getting their work into production, and into the market place by continuing to bring together designer-makers with manufacturers, suppliers, specialist advisors, mentors and project partners but also providing an extended support programme for all participants.
Participants were no longer required to form groups but had the opportunity to be matched with related experts. Further benefits included access to discounted support, showcasing opportunities at a major trade show and automatic entry for a Hidden Art Award.
The Innovative Routes to Market Forum took place on 22 February 2007, as an introduction to the programme, and a chance to hear from key speakers, and organisations involved.
The core of this 2007’s Innovative Routes to Market was the Hidden Polymers programme, run in association with the Polymer Centre at London Metropolitan University. The aim of this project was to develop a design idea into production and to market using polymers, on their own or mixed with steels and metals. At the end of the project, participants produced a model/prototype to display at a major trade fair in 2007.
Those participating in the Innovative Routes to Market programme were also able to submit a proposal to be considered for the
Hidden Art Select Range for the Hidden Art E-Shop. This is a range of specially branded products that are currently being sold on the
Hidden Art E-Shop and launched as part of the London Design Festival. Hidden Art aims to develop this range over the next couple of years with a view to positioning itself to tender for an Olympics merchandise licence in 2009.