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Funding now available for construction and building services businesses to join our STEM festival this November

30 September 2026

A celebration of all things Science, Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing. Can you help to inspire the next generation of workforce in your industry?

November 25-27th 2026

Running in November, our STEM festival of learning is designed to bridge the gap between the next generation and employers through fun, engaging and ultimately inspiring activities that showcase the amazing work done by the STEM sectors across Chesterfield and the surrounding region.

We need employer involvement

What better way to showcase this innovative and thriving sector than to have our local employers engaged with students? It paints a pathway to industry that resonates with young people who are ready to be inspired and enthused for their future careers – who knows, you could meet a future star for your organisation! There are a variety of ways to get involved, so we have created a menu of involvement to suit your wants/needs/capacity.

Thanks to the East Midlands Construction Technical Excellence College (CTEC), the Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward and the Teacher Industry Exchange (TIE) programme by EMCCA, we can now also offer funding for construction and building services businesses willing to participate.

The opportunities could include:

Inspire Future Talent:

Career Insight Sessions: Share your career journey, discuss live projects, introduce your organisation, or showcase innovative products and technologies.

Commitment:

1 Industry session = You will be paid £400 thanks to funding from EMCCA

Employers can receive a further £400 in expenses to prepare for their session.

= £800 per day is available for employers who present at our events.

Challenge and Identify Talent:

Employer-Led Skills Competitions: Set a practical challenge, judge student performance, and recognise outstanding talent.

Showcase Your Business:

Exhibition Stands and Product Demonstrations: Engage students through interactive displays, equipment demonstrations, and conversations about careers in your sector.

Bring Industry to Life:

Toolbox Talks and Practical Workshops: Deliver hands-on demonstrations that showcase industry techniques, products, equipment, and best practice.

Interested? Please fill out the form below, and our teams will be back in touch with you as soon as possible. We’d be delighted to work with you.

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is led by Mayor Claire Ward and covers the four local authority areas of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham. Its priorities include transport, housing, the visitor economy, economic growth, skills and adult education and net zero.