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Scunthorpe businesses to benefit from new Support Programme

Business
11:42, Wednesday, 14th April 2021

Manufacturing, engineering and logistics businesses in and around Scunthorpe are set to benefit from a wider package of business support and funding worth over £300,000, thanks to a new University of Lincoln growth accelerator programme.

The Productivity HUBs programme is aimed at micro, small and medium-sized businesses that are looking to grow in Scunthorpe, Grimsby and Boston.

The scheme is part of a wider Productivity Programme aimed at SMEs across Greater Lincolnshire, will run until June 2023 and has two options: an Accelerator programme aimed at advanced engineering and manufacturing businesses in Scunthorpe and 12 hours free business support for any SME in and around the three towns.

Successful participants in the Accelerator programme will receive support and advice from some the county’s best known business leaders and experts who will deliver workshops on everything from strategy to business planning and marketing.

The first eight-week, part-time programme will start in June at the North Lincolnshire University Campus in Scunthorpe, with a further nine programmes planned from September 2021 onwards.

Businesses taking part in the programme will have access to the University of Lincoln’s world-leading research, innovations and network of contacts. They will also be able to apply for a seed fund grant of up to £10,000 to help grow the business.

Rebecca Webster, the programme lead, said: “Part of the University’s remit is to drive productivity and growth in Greater Lincolnshire, and we believe that there are real growth opportunities in these three towns, in particular in the logistics and manufacturing sectors. The Business Accelerator programme is there to support ambitious entrepreneurs in these sectors that are looking to accelerate the growth of their businesses.

“Our Business Development programme on the other hand is designed to help any SME in any sector in Scunthorpe, including start-ups, that are looking to grow and to increase productivity and profitability.

During the Accelerator programme in particular, the participants can expect to:

  • Learn strategies to drive success and avoid failure
  • Receive mentoring and advice from industry experts
  • Develop a valuable network of business connections
  • Learn the art of presenting and articulating their business
  • Pitch to a panel of industry experts – with the best receiving cash awards and support to fuel business growth.

This year’s mentors will include experts in business growth and new business development, exporting, marketing, PR, trademarks and patents, and presentation skills.

The programme is the latest boost for local businesses and comes as North Lincolnshire Council has delivered grant schemes totalling more than £44m to more than 1,000 companies, protecting the economy and supporting local businesses through the pandemic.

Interested businesses are encouraged to apply sooner rather than later as spaces are limited. For more information and to apply, please visit www.productivityhubs.co.uk.

The accelerator programme is organised by The University of Lincoln and funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)