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 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.
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