East Midlands Combined County Authority Growth Hub Launches Peer Network Programme

24th November 2020

The East Midlands Combined County Authority Growth Hub launches it’s Peer Network programme which aims to bring together diverse cohorts of SMEs to work together collaboratively to discuss challenges, share feedback and devise practical solutions.

The programme, which is being delivered locally by a network of Growth Hubs, forms part of the Government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing EU transition. It seeks to improve the resilience of SMEs, their capability to adapt their business models to the “new normal” and position themselves for future success, driving longer-term productivity gains.

The programme, which will be delivered by a network skilled facilitators, will consist of the following sector based Peer Networks:

• Manufacturing
• Hospitality and Visitor Economy
• Creative Industries
• Life Sciences
• Retail
• Construction
• Food and Drink
• Social/ Healthcare

The Growth Hub will also deliver the following mixed-sector groups:

• High growth businesses
• Women-owned businesses
• BAME businesses
• High growth businesses with a focus on digital (technology, cyber security)
• High growth businesses with a focus on leadership and management
• High growth businesses with a focus on sales/ eCommerce

Each of the above networks will bring together groups of 11 SMEs which will run from January to March 2021. In total 18 hours of Peer Network support will be provided to each business with an additional 3.5 hours of one to one support. The key benefits to businesses are:

• Overcoming business challenges and recognising new opportunities
• Build a trusted network of connections
• Improving long-term personal and business performance
• Achieving higher turnover, employment levels and productivity growth – as research indicates for businesses adopting formal management practices

This programme is now closed.

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