====== ELM Project: DCMS Create Growth Programme Application ======

===== Project Overview =====

{{:elm:project_banner.jpg?600}}

The **Ecology Language Model (ELM)** is a transformative digital platform that reimagines how Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is managed by replacing static documentation with an intelligent conversational interface. Led by Axis Design Architects, this project represents our strategic expansion into ecological technology solutions, addressing a critical gap in the UK's environmental framework while creating new growth opportunities for our business.

> Application Status: **IN PREPARATION** \\ 
> Deadline: May 29, 2025 (11:00) \\ 
> Funding Request: £50,000 \\
> Project Duration: 6 months (October 2025 - March 2026)

===== Application Contents =====

^ Section ^ Status ^ Owner ^ Last Updated ^
| [[elm:project_details|1. Project Details]] | In progress | Project Director | 2025-05-08 |
| [[elm:application_questions|2. Application Questions]] | In progress | Project Director | 2025-05-08 |
| [[elm:finances|3. Finances]] | Not started | Finance Lead | - |
| [[elm:project_impact|4. Project Impact]] | Not started | Project Director | - |
| [[elm:risk_register|Risk Register]] (Mandatory appendix) | In progress | Technical Lead | 2025-05-08 |
| [[elm:project_plan|Project Plan]] (Optional appendix) | Not started | Project Director | - |

===== Key Application Questions =====

  * [[elm:question_7|Question 7: The Project]] - What we intend to undertake
  * [[elm:question_8|Question 8: Impact and Added Value]] - How funding will grow our business
  * [[elm:question_9|Question 9: Business Planning and Resources]] - Team and capability
  * [[elm:question_10|Question 10: Project Plan, Risks and Costs]] - How we'll use the funding

===== Project Team =====

^ Role ^ Person ^ Status ^ Notes ^
| Project Director | TBC | Recruiting | Axis Design Architects Director |
| Technical Lead | TBC | Identifying | Potential subcontract |
| Ecological Knowledge Specialist | TBC | Identifying | Potential subcontract |
| UX/UI Designer | TBC | Identifying | Potential internal or subcontract |

===== Application Timeline =====

{{timeline>May 2025}}
* 08: Initial concept development, notify CGP region ✓
* 15: Complete draft of key application questions
* 19: Internal review of application
* 22: Finalize risk register and project plan
* 25: Final application review
* 29: SUBMISSION DEADLINE (11:00)
{{endtimeline}}

===== Meeting Notes =====

  * [[elm:meeting_20250508|2025-05-08: Initial Planning Meeting]]
  * [[elm:meeting_20250513|2025-05-13: Team Assignments and Roles]]

===== Resources =====

  * [[elm:business_connect_guidance|Business Connect Good Application Guide]]
  * [[elm:bng_resources|Biodiversity Net Gain Resources]]
  * [[elm:assessor_guidance|DCMS Create Growth Programme Assessor Guidance]]
  * [[https://www.ukri.org/councils/innovate-uk/guidance-for-applicants/|Innovate UK Guidance for Applicants]]
  * [[https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/business-growth/|Innovate UK Business Growth Services]]

===== Next Steps =====

  * Complete team assignments for application sections
  * Finalize project budget breakdown
  * Develop risk register in required format
  * Create project plan/Gantt chart
  * Prepare MFA declaration form
  * Schedule internal review meeting

===== Latest Updates =====

<note>
**2025-05-08** - Initial project proposal developed, with focus on the West Midlands region. Core concept defined around three key innovations: Conversational Management Interface, Persistent Knowledge Architecture, and Collective Intelligence Network. Notified West Midlands CGP team of intention to apply.
</note>

<note important>
**DEADLINE ALERT** - All application sections must be completed and ready for final review by May 25, 2025, to ensure adequate time for final adjustments before submission.
</note>

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[[:elm:admin:start|Application Admin Area]] | [[:contact|Contact Team]] | [[:https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/|Innovation Funding Service]]