Features / Innovation
The group with big innovation goals for Bristol
Bringing together the city’s innovators to start conversations and share learning, Bristol Innovators’ Group (BIG) is helping people and organisations in all sectors.
Formed in November 2019 by Charlie Widdows, Aimee Skinner, James Snelgrove, Aaron Slater, Hannah Beatrice and Rob Sheffield, BIG is a free to join, Bristol-based, cross-sectoral innovation network.
“Bristol has many sector-specific networks, doing excellent work for their members,” says Rob Sheffield, director of Bluegreen Learning, a workplace learning consultancy, and one of the group’s leaders. “We wanted to set up a network, themed on innovation, but spanning the sectors. “
With a LinkedIn group and hosting monthly meetings on Zoom, community, as well as innovation, is a large part of BIG.
Usually focused on broad innovation themes, guest speakers often share their knowledge and experiences during meetings, and the group gives a platform for members to talk about ‘doing’ innovation in their sector.
From top left, clockwise: Charlie Widdows, Aimee Skinner, James Snelgrove, Aaron Slater, Hannah Beatrice and Rob Sheffield. Photo: BIG
“We want to help people learn to do innovation in their roles,” says Rob. “That educative aspect is a big part of our role. But, also, connecting people is really important, especially now when it’s so needed and we’re more fragmented.”
In just 14 months, the group has grown to more than 300 members and has not only bolstered innovation in sectors across the city but has been supporting organisations tackle inequality.
BIG is working with John Bradford, CEO of DigiLocal, to get laptops into households that need but don’t have them and has helped the organisation get hold of more than 400 laptops.
“At this tough and isolating time of Covid-19, we’ve helped connect people to form a supportive online community,” says Rob. “Relationships are forming in the network. Interesting conversations are happening.
“There’s a definite emotional connection to Bristol – people want to apply their skills, time, resources for the benefit of the city.”
Main photo: Destination Bristol
Read more: Laptops for Bristol: donate your old laptops
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
