Enabling local SME growth
The SME Competitiveness Programme is a three-year programme providing bespoke support to businesses in the Swindon and Wiltshire area and is funded by the European Regional Development Fund ( ERDF ).
It is a broad and exciting programme delivered by the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub in conjunction with chosen delivery partners . It has three main elements : 1 . Pre-start and start-up support 2 . Growth and scale-up support 3 . Support for individuals being made redundant within the area wishing to start a business
The Growth Hub Business Navigator Team led by Rob Creer under the direction of the Growth Hub Manager , Chris Stevens , recognises that businesses need access to trusted business support advisers , enabling them to grow . Timely , informative and useful guidance ; signposting to the best options available and a knowledgeable ear are essential at all stages of operating a business ; more so now than ever as a result of the pandemic and needing to manage the dynamic expectation of both customers and employees .
The Business Navigators at the Growth Hub have decades of collective experience as well as the ability and sensitivity to assist businesses at any stage of their development . They find the best possible solutions to problems whether the business is an embryonic idea or is well-established ; with staff or without . As part of the programme , they identify the myriad of support available ; offering free and impartial advice and highlighting the right route for the particular business to consider taking , following an effective and initial diagnostic conversation .
The support capabilities of the programme ’ s chosen delivery partners , YTKO , SETsquared , Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council ensure that all aspects of an SME ’ s journey are covered and easily accessed .
SETsquared provides tailored workshops to specifically support digital businesses ; YTKO offers those referred by the Growth Hub the opportunity to attend one of its valuable Outset programmes and start-up businesses might also be referred to The Enterprise Network , led by Wiltshire Council , which provides workspace as well as support , training and advice .
Another intrinsic part of the SME Competitiveness Programme is to support with known economic shocks such as the closure of the Honda factory in July 2021 . The programme funds support for those wishing to start up their own business following redundancy as well as companies in Honda ’ s supply chains . In addition , there is also a coordinated approach to contacting companies who might need staff with the skills of ex-Honda workers . This support has been made available thanks to the match funding made available by Swindon Borough Council .