Innovation Cluster

Supply chains, food trends, changing attitudes to food, and growing food sustainably and securely. Participate in the commercial benefits of food innovation through events and networking

Since 2021, the University of East Anglia (UEA) has been building a growing Food and Drink Innovation Cluster in Norfolk and Suffolk. It connects food and drink producers, suppliers and researchers and promotes knowledge exchange, collaboration and innovation.


Expect to meet the people who will make the difference

This emerging cluster in Norfolk and Suffolk is linking organisations interested in the commercial benefits of food innovation and the future of food.

If your organisation is engaged with the food supply chain, the cluster is welcoming members focused on building resilience through innovation.

What can you expect from the cluster?

• Networking events and trade directory

• Research and development collaborations with academics

• 1 to 1 workshops and support

• Space at our trade events

• Training and professional development courses

The cluster is led by the University of East Anglia - get in touch with the Food Innovation Cluster team below to find out more and get involved!

Angie Lester

Javabean

Speciality Coffee Roaster

"I thought the sessions were clearly structured and have given me an excellent foundation… Thanks once again.”

View more testimonials


Our Events

Upcoming Cluster Events

May 24
On Site

From brand to box – making the most of your packaging to tell your story

24th May, 2023

Join us to consider how packaging design can trigger those feelings in people and connect them with your brand. Use your brand to sell.

May 30
On Site

How to: embrace TikTok as a food and drink brand

30th May, 2023

Join us in this workshop to understand Tik Tok and how to get the most out of this platform for your food and drink business

Jun 01
On Site

Building a challenger brand and standing out in a crowded marketplace

1st June, 2023

Join us for a tour of Wildcraft Brewery's new facilities, hear from the founder and learn from Laurence from challenger brand Artisan Drinks

Jun 06
On Site

A date for your dairy!

6th June, 2023

We are inviting all cheesemakers and those in Norfolk and Suffolk producing cheese accompaniments to tasting & product development workshop.

Jun 07
On Site

Smurfit Kappa Site Visit and Sustainability Talk

7th June, 2023

Learn all about sustainability and how your food and drink packaging can benefit the earth and be more sustainable.

Jun 13
On Site

How to: work with influencers to increase brand awareness

13th June, 2023

Join us in this workshop to understand how to work with influencers to increase your brand awareness and build a loyal audience

Jun 15
On Site

Exporting overseas: top tips to expand your food and drink business

15th June, 2023

Exporting overseas: top tips to expand your food and drink business

Jun 21
On Site

The Summer Snowcase

21st June, 2023

Celebrate the Summer Solstice with a festive trends workshop, evening networking and meet our resident businesses.

View more of Our Events


Meet Our Members

We're delighted to be able to support so many innovative Food & Drink businesses in the East of England. Here are a few words from some of them.

Angie Lester

Javabean

Speciality Coffee Roaster

"I thought the sessions were clearly structured and have given me an excellent foundation… Thanks once again.”

Ewan Phillips

And It Has

Food Allergy Platform

"I have really benefitted from this programme. Nick, Alex and Gabby have been really supportive, enthusiastic and encouraging with our work to improve the experience of customers eating out safely and the up skilling of Front of House and Kitchen teams."

Joe Hill

One Planet Pizza

Pizza Manufacturer

The Broadland Food Innovation Team helped secure us a valuable piece of market research and insights work with a leading UK agency. Without their support this is something we couldn’t afford as a small local business. These insights have helped us stay up to date with our competitors and secure key meetings with several of the UK’s largest retailers. We couldn’t have asked for better support – great communication, speedy delivery and continuous care and support!

Katrina Ajomale

Crumpetorium

Handmade, Artisan Crumpets

The Innovation Support team have been very supportive and easy to work with. They have taken the time to understand my business and the challenges I face and helped me find some simple and logical solutions. I would never have been able to afford this kind of expert advice if I’d approached a business consultant. I really valued that they helped me identify some opportunities for new product development and new sales opportunities including the wedding catering market

View more


Meet the Team

Meet the Food Innovation Cluster team.

Alex Larter

Food Innovation Cluster Manager

Charlotte Beach

Marketing & Events Coordinator

Martin Burchett

Relationship & Project Administrator

Laura Triana Africano

Marketing & Events Graduate Intern

View all Team Members