STEAMhouse
24th March 2025
A Celebration of Diversity and Progress at STEAMhouse
We were proud to recently have been joined by a group of inspirational women for our Bold & Inspirational: Women & Diversity Driving Change Showcase, showcasing The Diverse Innovation Accelerator and The Living Well Consortium. It was fantastic to see STEAMhouse again become a vibrant hub of conversation, collaboration, and inspiration. We came together with innovative entrepreneurs and leaders in the innovation scene and support ecosystems to celebrate the diverse women and businesses who are driving change in the West Midlands.
A Day of Insights and Impact
Our milestone event was the culmination of the Innovate UK-funded DIATOMIC Inclusive Innovation Programme. The session opened with an inspiring address from Karolina Medwecka-Piasecka (East Birmingham Programme Development Manager) (who initiated the programme) and Prof. Monder Ram (Director of CREME, Aston University), setting the stage for knowledge-sharing and empowerment. Their messages underscored the importance of inclusive innovation in fostering economic and social growth.
A compelling case study presented by Harvinder Sohal (Living Well, Marketing and Partnerships Manager) showcased how the consortia model is revolutionizing collaboration in business. This was followed by engaging presentations from companies that had participated in the Living Well-led programme, demonstrating real-world applications of inclusive innovation.
The Diverse Innovation Accelerator
The standout moments of the day were hearing from the innovators on the Diverse Innovation Accelerator; Founder of Inclusive Start, Natasha Logan, Blacktype Digital, Christina Jones, Gemimas, Nayer Khan-Farrukh, Learn with Olonyo, Vivean Pomwell, & Mindability, Asha Berzon, as well as some insightful words from Haweya Abdikadir, of Guudvitamins. It was inspiring to hear the support they received, the journey they have been on during their time on the Accelerator and their vision for the future.
We were also proud to witness the presentation on the Diverse Innovation Accelerator wrap-up by our very own Sophia Tarr (STEAMhouse, Business Partnerships Manager) who led the Accelerator in collaboration with Charlotte Bowden (Birmingham & Solihull Growth Hub). Attendees gained valuable insights into how this initiative has equipped underrepresented entrepreneurs with the resources and mentorship needed to thrive in the innovation ecosystem.
Presentations from accelerator participants highlighted the tangible impact of diversity in business, sparking an enriching discussion during the Open Q&A session. The session, moderated by Pam Waddell (Director of Innovation Alliance/WMCA), featured expert panellists such as Monder Ram (Aston University), Kanimozhi Narayanan (Aston University), and Clayton Shaw (Head of STEAMhouse, BCU) and Sophia Tarr (Business Partnerships Manager). Together, they tackled key questions on accessibility, opportunity, and the future of inclusive entrepreneurship. While there was praise for the programmes and efforts to make innovation more inclusive, hard questions were asked and points were shared about just how inclusive innovation and business support is in the West Midlands, particularly when it comes to having a voice at the table in shaping policy and macro-decisions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Inclusive Innovation
As the event concluded with a dynamic networking lunch, the energy in the room was undeniable. Conversations flowed, connections were made, and new ideas were sparked—all in the spirit of building a more diverse and inclusive innovation landscape.
At STEAMhouse, we are incredibly proud to deliver initiatives like the Diverse Innovation Accelerator, reinforcing our commitment to empowering entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. Diversity is not just a goal—it is the driving force behind creativity, resilience, and sustainable progress.
This event was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful step forward in reshaping the future of innovation. Thank you to all the speakers, participants, funders and attendees who made this an inspiring and transformative day, and the programme a success. We’re proud to support and will continue to seek opportunities in underserved communities and look forward to listening to and working with inspiring communities to continue to innovate, collaborate, and champion inclusivity.
A special thanks goes to Charlotte Boden, the Birmingham & Solihull Growth Hub and Mentors, Mark Ashton, Indy Hunjan and Michelle Dalton who were also instrumental in supporting the businesses on the Diverse Innovation Accelerator Programme.
We invite you to try and capture some of the energy of the day by looking through some images of the day, below:
STEAMhouse is on a mission to enable innovation through collaboration. Powered by Birmingham City University, it’s a supportive space where entrepreneurs, students, businesses and organisations co-exist to solveproblems and develop new ideas. Comprised of four floors, STEAMhouseprovides the latest technology, kit and equipment, complemented by a portfolio of products services and programmes that include skills development, space hire, consultancy services, and events, it’s a destination that makes innovation happen.
