Francesca has 10 years of experience managing innovation programmes which have supported over 1,000 businesses in their growth across industries including transport and logistics, designing accelerator programmes and bridging connections with investors. She has been working both in the private and public sector spanning organisations such as Lancaster University, The British Library, YouTube and the Royal Academy of Engineering. She plays a pivotal role at Innovate UK Business Connect transport team supporting entrepreneurs, corporates, local authorities and academics enhancing their solutions and services through the application of digital technology and AI. Hence, facilitating key connections beyond stakeholders’ existing thinking