Robert Bentley

With an MSc in Local Economic Development and a life scientist by background, Robert has a particular passion in supporting innovative and technology-based sustainable development, environmental and renewable energy projects.

Robert’s knowledge of grant funding is extensive, from large programme funds supported by Single Regeneration Budget, Regional Growth Funds, European Regional Development Fund and European Social Fund to funds for research and development, such as those managed through Innovate UK, European Space Agency and Horizon 2020. Since 2000, Robert has initiated and developed over 150 business, education, training and social inclusion projects, levering over £80m UK government, National Lottery, charitable and European Union funds.

Robert has researched and prepared business proposals to support various industry sectors, including creative, digital technologies, culture and media, education, tourism, leisure, automotive, construction, defence, aerospace, manufacturing and ICT.

Highly versatile, Robert’s work has varied enormously, from directing business support and regeneration projects across the EU to collaborating with other professionals in small project-based teams. This has required adept business, cultural and local government insight and, of course, considerable people skills.