Swindon & Wiltshire Growth Hub Report | Page 2

About the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub

The Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub is the business support arm of the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership ( SWLEP ).
The SWLEP was established in July 2011 by central Government as a private sector led partnership between local businesses , Swindon Borough Council , Wiltshire Council , the military and the education sector .
Swindon and Wiltshire offers a highly competitive economy , ranked 12th out of the 38 Local Enterprise Partnerships in England . By 2026 , SWLEP wants the area to be renowned for innovation , entrepreneurialism and great quality of life . The Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub supports that aim , providing fully funded ( free ) guidance and signposting for businesses .
During the pandemic the Growth Hub ’ s service expanded from a web-based portal to a full information , advice and guidance service , a combination of planned growth and additional COVID-19 specific funding , taking the team from three to 12 strong .
This report documents the work of the Growth Hub from March 2020 – March 2021 , reflecting the impact of the pandemic on the trading environment in Swindon and Wiltshire during this time and how businesses have adjusted , diversified , invested and upskilled to survive , and for some , to grow .