Polar explorer encourages Birmingham businesses to get adventurous

A Midlands-based polar explorer is encouraging local businesses to take advantage of a new high-tech facility in the region. 

Adventurer Mark Wood, whose numerous escapades include arctic expeditions and Himalayan treks, will be appearing at an event in the less hostile surroundings of Birmingham on Tuesday 6 August to promote Touch Digital – an innovative initiative aimed at helping small businesses in the West Midlands.

Backed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and run in collaboration between Coventry and Aston universities, Touch Digital offers advice and support to companies on how to boost their business using the latest digital technology and provides access to this cutting-edge equipment at its dedicated tech lab in Coventry.

The Touch Digital lab - launched last month at Coventry University Enterprises Ltd and based at the Technology Park on the University’s campus – is home to an impressive collection of hardware including interactive touch screen tables, an array of smart devices and a state-of-the-art 3D printer.

The event on Tuesday - entitled Touch Digital: Connected – at which Mark will be speaking is the first in a series of regional road shows designed to highlight the benefits of the programme to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).

Mark, one of only eight people in history who can count a solo skiing expedition to the South Pole amongst his travels, will be sharing experiences of his journeys to the furthest reaches of the planet and explaining how his globetrotting adventures have been enhanced by high-tech kit similar to the equipment that Touch Digital offers.

As well as hearing Mark’s inspirational talk, Touch Digital: Connected offers expert advice and practical support on how SMEs can get the most out of the service as well as the chance to network with local businesses and those already benefitting from the facility.  

Touch Digital: Connected takes place from 10.30 am to 1.00 pm on Tuesday 6 August 2013 at The Studio, Cannon Street, Birmingham B2 5EP.

For further information please contact Mark Farnan, communications assistant, Coventry University, on +44 (0)24 7765 8245 or email mark.farnan@coventry.ac.uk.

Touch Digital
Touch Digital is a new initiative funded by the European Regional Development Fund.  Based at Coventry University Enterprises Ltd,   Touch Digital helps small and medium firms in the West Midlands to integrate the latest technologies into their business and boost productivity.

Further information about Touch Digital, including forthcoming road shows in the region, is available by calling +44 (0)24 7615 8207. 

Mark Wood
Mark Wood is established polar explorer and adventurer based in the UK. In 2011/2012 he attempted to ski solo and unsupported to the north and south geographic poles – an incredible feat testing him to the very edge of physical and mental endurance.

Mark has a passion for the environment. Through Skype, films, talks and educational programs he encourages the need to explore.
www.markwoodexplorer.com.