Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the borough of Havant are being invited to gain tailored support to strengthen their businesses through a new mentoring programme.
The Havant Borough Business Growth Programme, funded by Havant Borough Council and delivered by the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) offers up to 12 local businesses the opportunity to improve their chances of accessing finance and private sector investment over the next year to enable better business sustainability in the borough.
Speaking about the programme, Paula Swain LEP Director and SME Lead, said: “We are excited to deliver this opportunity to small and medium sized businesses in the Havant area to support those who might be looking to reach new markets, to develop their employee's skills, to create a more effective customer engagement strategy, or even to devise an export strategy.
“The Solent LEP has extensive experience and understanding of local business needs, and we want to back Havant business owners who are looking to achieve their potential through expert business mentorship and support.
“Places are limited so please get in touch with us as soon as possible to express interest in taking part in the Havant Business Growth Programme."
Councillor Alex Rennie, Leader of Havant Borough Council, said: “This is a great initiative for ambitious business owners and leaders to gain valuable insight from experienced business mentors. It will enable them to confidently move towards developing more resilient and sustainable businesses, something of great importance for the whole of the borough."
“The programme will improve their understanding of business finance and will give participants a better chance of bidding into competitive funding rounds, ensuring that the economic vitality of the area is strengthened, with new opportunities created for future generations.”
The Havant Borough Business Growth Programme will include themed peer group workshops covering business planning for finance; managing cashflow; bidding and tendering, and procurement.
These will be followed by one-to-one mentoring for 12 months, with bespoke support for participants to manage their finances through robust business planning, forecasting and cashflow management. Each will receive a comprehensive, mentor-developed action plan on completion of the programme.
The Solent LEP will hold a final showcase at the Venturefest South 2023 event, with a panel of investors and business support experts, who will provide feedback and network opportunities.
The Havant Borough Business Growth Programme is open to:
- SMEs registered in the Havant Borough Council area
- Business owners or leaders in the SME
- SMEs* operating over 2 years
*SMEs in manufacturing and construction will be prioritised.
If interest is high in this programme, a waiting list will be opened for following programme taking place either latter this year, or early in 2024.
https://solentlep.org.uk/havant-business-growth-programme/
NOTES TO EDITORS
About the Solent LEP
The Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) partners with business, education, and local authorities to drive economic growth and job creation in our region.
Our vision for Solent 2050 is to become a global leader in maritime and climate change adaptation, with thriving towns and cities that promote opportunities for all communities to flourish.
To do this we will:
- Support marine and maritime economy
- Pioneer climate change adaptation and decarbonisation
- Develop talent base, supporting at all career stages
- Develop visitor and cultural economy leveraging Solent’s natural beauty and rich maritime history
- Foster a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and collaboration
- Put health and wellbeing at the heart of economic success.
To find out more visit:
Website: https://solentlep.org.uk
Twitter: https://twitter.com/solentlep
Facebook: https://Facebook.com/solentlocalenterprisepartnership
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/solent-local-enterprise-partnership-lep-
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU7ioTVLHLDSJOgaxt1Mfnw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solentlep/