The Solent LEP is encouraging all Solent businesses to get in touch with its team of expert business advisors for free, impartial, 1-2-1 business support.
The Solent LEP Growth Hub team has already helped thousands of local businesses to navigate the pandemic and Brexit, from those who are looking to expand their operations to those struggling with the economic challenges of the last couple of years.
As many businesses continue to feel the impact of Covid, and with new customs controls for exports between the UK and EU taking effect from 1 January, the Solent LEP is ready to support local businesses, connecting them with the right guidance and advice.
The Solent Local Enterprise Partnership Deputy Chair and Chair of the Solent LEP's Business Task Force SJ Hunt, said:
“This year, our specialist Growth Hub team want to reach out to even more businesses based in the Solent to provide free, independent business support. We are fully aware that many businesses may need advice and support to stay resistant and buoyant as they are once again operating in a challenging environment.
This is why we are encouraging business owners, whether from small or medium-sized business to get in touch with our Growth Hub team in the year ahead, no matter what your business goals are. The LEP is committed to helping the Solent economy to grow, so it’s important that businesses are getting the right help and support, tailored to their needs and circumstances.”
Figures for the 2020/21 financial year show that the number of new businesses receiving support more than doubled to 2,309, with a further 307 receiving bespoke one-to-one support.
One local business owner who has benefited from the support of the team is Nicola Murgatroyd, Chief Executive Officer of Kuradocs Ltd.
The Southampton-based tech company is behind the award-winning app MyLifeRaft, which provides people living with disabilities, and their carers, with a single source of information on their needs, preferences and goals.
After speaking with a LEP business advisor, Nicola was able to understand the barriers to growth for her business and identify the most relevant support available. With this practical advice she has been able to build the company’s commercial strategy.
On her experience of the support she received, Nicola said:
“Success in business is made up of many elements. Dedication, deep thought, passion, luck plays its part too. But it can be a lonely place, and having others stand there alongside you, even for a short time, is the best. I would without hesitation recommend Solent LEP Growth Hub, we would not be where we are now as a business without their support.”
Available to all Solent-based businesses, the LEP’s Growth Hub team is there to offer support to businesses on a wide range of business topics, including:
● Reaching more customers
● Exporting products
● Training and developing staff
● Finding workspaces
● Funding new projects
● Becoming more sustainable
● Navigating Brexit
To book to speak with a Solent LEP Growth Hub business support adviser, call 02392 688055, or for more information about the service, click here.
We have moved - visit our new website www.solentpartners.com