The Good Growth Programme has helped unlock the potential of expanding companies in West Yorkshire, creating hundreds of jobs, with more on the way.
Delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice and funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the announcement was made during a recent event designed to shape future SME assistance in Leeds.
Over £1.8m of funding has been given out to date, helping firms turning over £100,000 to grow by giving them access to five themed masterclasses covering marketing, people and skills, scaling operations, net zero and digitisation.
All businesses that sign-up to the initiative, also receive a GROWTHmapper® diagnostic that uncovers strengths and weaknesses, before benefitting from one-to-one specialist coaching to overcome challenges and make the most of new opportunities.
More than 70 policy makers and SMEs attended the event held at NatWest’s Accelerator Hub. Delegates heard how West Yorkshire needs longer-standing business programmes that deliver a mix of grants, access to external coaches and specialist assistance with sustainability.
“The WYCA’s Good Growth Programme has been highly effective in assisting SMEs across the region and, arguably, could be the blueprint for what highly successful business support looks like,” explained David Wright, Programme Manager.
“Our success stems from the bespoke nature of the help offered, particularly the in-depth business diagnostics conducted by experienced local client managers to identify growth opportunities. Combined with expert coaching, this tailored approach has enabled fully engaged SMEs to implement meaningful changes and accelerate their growth.”
To find out more visit www.wygoodgrowth.co.uk