Calling all Stockport Business Pioneers

This year’s Pioneer 10 Programme is on the hunt for Stockport Business Pioneers, talented entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. 

Led by Stockport Business and Innovation Centre (SBIC), Pioneer 10 is aimed at early stage businesses who are keen to grow along with established businesses looking to innovate and/or enter new markets.

This year’s winner and runner up will receive:

– Up to £15,000 in business support packages

– Advice from and connection with business leaders

– Access to workshops on growth and innovation

– Tools, growth planning services and training

The top 10 businesses will also receive one-to-one business coaching.

The Pioneer 10 entrepreneurs will be chosen by a panel of business experts from Gorvins, Tangent Design, Clarke Nicklin, Appleyard Lees, Souter PR and Stockport Council.

Stockport Business Pioneers, owners who want to be considered for the scheme can apply online today.

Last year’s Pioneer 10 winner FilmMyMatch – which is located at SBIC in Reddish – has used the support provided by the competition to help facilitate the rapid growth of the business over the last 12 months.

Dave Roe, Director of FilmMyMatch, said:

“Winning the Pioneer10 competition has been fantastic for the business, enabling us to centralise our operations via dedicated office space at SBIC and also streamline our business practices in a range of areas by tapping into the support provided by local experts. In addition, the exposure we have received as a result of the competition has really helped us to establish a presence in the local business community”.

Councillor Kate Butler, Stockport Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, said:

“This is an exciting opportunity for not only young businesses facing the next steps, but also for established small businesses who’d like support to take them in a new direction. The Pioneer 10 partners have a wealth of knowledge and resources to support companies to grow and make an impact in the local economy.

“Pioneer 10 is one of the many Council-backed programmes available to businesses. From financial relief and loans, to improving digital connectivity and hosting workshops, the Council has a wide range of support available to ensure businesses across the borough can grow and prosper.”

Pioneer 10 is part of SBIC’s continued commitment to support entrepreneurs. SBIC provides flexible office space specifically aimed at nurturing fledgling businesses and offers mentoring and support to help start-ups and young businesses develop and deliver a robust business plan.

The facility is managed by Oxford Innovation and owned by Stockport Council.

Pictured: Pioneer 10 winners Robert Hezel (left) and Dave Roe from FilmMyMatch with Tony Corcoran at SBIC.