Over 100 delegates gathered at Birchwood Science Park in Warrington last week to learn more about the support programmes available to businesses through European and Structural Funds to help them grow, increase turnover, create jobs and develop new products or processes.
The event provided an update on the current European funding position, with funding set to continue for the next two and a half years, and businesses were encouraged to access the wealth of support currently available to them through a wide range of different programmes.
This includes Cheshire and Warrington Growth Hub, an impartial, clear and expert first stop shop service for businesses looking for support with their growth ambitions, as well as young and potential new businesses seeking advice and guidance. It also delivers a Business Growth Programme providing a bespoke package of business advice, mentoring and technical support to SMEs.
The Growth Hub is managed by Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and has a wide range of business support products in addition to its own, which are delivered through third party expert providers including the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, a £400m fund provided by the British Business Bank matched by investment from the European Investment Bank, which offers investment to companies at different stages of development.
SMART Cheshire was also launched in September this year, offering leaders of small companies looking to innovate a combination of expert workshops and individual coaching and peer support. Other innovation support available include the ‘Innovation to Commercialisation’ programme, delivered by the University of Chester and providing technical support and access to equipment for SMEs, enabling them to develop and test prototypes and develop collaborative project between universities and SMEs.
Read more at 871candwep.co.uk