Driving UK-wide Innovation with BAE & Innovate UK

Innovate UK and BAE Systems needed a trusted delivery partner to manage the reach and engagement strategy for #Codeathon2025. The programme’s goal was to connect innovators, problem-solvers, and businesses with defence and security challenges, using a mix of digital campaigns and live regional events to drive attendance and solution submissions.

The challenge

The challenge was complex: design and deliver a UK-wide campaign that combined engaging online content, tailored digital marketing, and the successful coordination of ten regional events, all while ensuring consistency of messaging and measurable outcomes.

Our solution

Carswell Gould developed and managed an integrated reach and engagement strategy to amplify the programme and connect with diverse audiences across the UK.

Our role covered:

  • Website content and hub creation – building an information hub with clear copy and creative assets, linking audiences to challenges, events, and resources.
  • Digital marketing and campaign assets – delivering a campaign-in-a-box approach with social, email, and blog content tailored to Innovate UK and BAE Systems channels.
  • Social media and content amplification – aligning with guidelines while bringing creativity, innovation, and collaboration to enhance engagement.
  • Event management – orchestrating 10 regional networking events, handling venue negotiation, delegate registration (targeting 60 per event), speaker liaison, and onsite logistics where required.
  • Programme support – producing planning decks, managing registration through Eventbrite, and keeping stakeholders aligned with clear reporting and documentation.

The impact

The programme successfully engaged its target audiences, amplified awareness of defence and security challenges, and created meaningful opportunities for collaboration and innovation. By blending digital marketing, content creation, and event management, Carswell Gould helped #Codeathon2025 achieve its objectives and lay the groundwork for future initiatives.

This project demonstrates our DNA as creative problem solvers. By combining creativity, technology, and seamless event delivery, we helped Innovate UK and BAE Systems connect with the brightest minds across the UK to address some of the most pressing innovation challenges.