Fully-funded programme offers business growth support

A fully-funded programme is offering free training and support to ensure business growth for SMEs in Greater Manchester.

Launched in November 2020, the Skills for Growth programme aims to help small businesses in the city-region develop their businesses and employees, particularly in the wake of the economic changes brought about by the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit.

Programme content is tailored for businesses to upskill employees and drive productivity improvements, as well as support health and wellbeing of the workforce. The Skills for Growth programme can support with the following:

• Developing / improving the skills-set of teams
• Improving the productivity of a business / team
• Tailored /one-to-one support and action planning
• Zero-cost skills consultation service
• Supporting talent requirements now and in the future (e.g. Kickstart, Apprenticeships, GM Bridge)
• Creating an adaptable and resilient workforce
• Team morale / wellbeing
• Managing workforce in a virtual world / environment
• Supporting teams through business changes
• Supporting in exploring funding opportunities for training & Growth

Following an initial consultation, businesses will be assigned a dedicated skills coach to assess current talent and skills, before working to develop bespoke productivity and skills plans to support employees on a one-to-one basis. The Skills for Growth programme will also work with businesses to find the right training provider to deliver the plans.

Further information about eligibility for the programme and how to take part is available from the Skills for Growth SME website and the brochure below.

The Skills for Growth programme is fully-funded thanks to investment from the European Social Fund and is supported by Greater Manchester Combined Authority, the Chamber of Commerce and the Business Growth Hub.