BUSINESS NEWS
SME COMPETITIVENESS PROGRAMME PAYS OFF
Over 1200 businesses have been helped and at least 160 new jobs created in Swindon and Wiltshire thanks to a local SME Competitiveness Programme .
A consortium led by the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership ( SWLEP ) and overseen by the Growth Hub and its partners delivered the fully funded business support programme thanks to the European Regional Development Fund ( ERDF ).
The SME Competitiveness Programme covered the costs of provision for up to 12 hours of business support and was free to access for anyone – including those considering starting a business through to those running established businesses , with a wide range of support being offered . It also specifically provided help to those affected by the closure of the Honda site who wanted to start up their own enterprise .
In most instances , the help given began with a one-to-one conversation that delved into the precise needs of the SME . The form that the ongoing support and guidance should take was then discussed and recommended . This ranged from further one-to-one sessions to a variety of bespoke workshops and other support activities .
The SWLEP chose the support capabilities of delivery partners YTKO , SETsquared , Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council to ensure that all aspects of a SMEs journey were covered and easily accessed .
The Growth Hub began delivering the programme support in early 2020 and continued to run throughout the pandemic , proving to be a valuable resource to businesses during that time . The final sessions were delivered by the end of June this year .
Commenting on the value provided by the programme , one participant said , “ The course was well structured and presented with a good balance of personally delivered material , breakout groups and video learning .”
Chris Stevens , Head of Business Support at SWLEP , said , “ We are delighted that the ERDF-funded SME Programme has been able to strengthen the economic landscape across Swindon and Wiltshire . The Growth Hub team exceeded the expectations of those who interacted with them . Whilst this funded programme has ended , we will continue to provide both funded support as well as our bespoke Growth Hub Plus membership option , which offers additional benefits .”
“ We ' re delighted that the ERDF-funded SME Programme has been able to strengthen the economic landscape across Swindon and Wiltshire ”
If you are a business owner , leader or manager who wishes to take your organisation to the next level ; access great support and advice for you and your team as well as be part of a diverse and ambitious group of other like-minded individuals , then contact the Growth Hub to find out more .
Hello @ SWGrowthHub . co . uk 01249 477 287
Paddy Bradley steps down from SWLEP
Paddy Bradley has retired from his position as Chief Executive Officer at the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership ( SWLEP ).
Following 10 years within the organisation , he was awarded his MBE for services to the local economy and to the community in the 2023 New Year Honours List . Paddy ’ s drive and passion to see the success and development of not only the Swindon and Wiltshire area , but that of the wider economic community , has been immense .
He has worked with other LEPs , championed the alternative energy sector , advocated the creation of the Careers Hub and appointment of Skills Advisers within the Growth Hub , and was a driving force behind the UK ’ s first Business Cyber Centre in Chippenham .
The SWLEP Board has appointed Debby Skellern as Acting CEO . Debby has a depth of knowledge relating to the Government ’ s LEP framework and has recently supported the Western Gateway to help progress hydrogen and net-zero priorities .
Paul Moorby , OBE and Chair of the Board of SWLEP , said , “ Paddy has contributed enormously to the ongoing economic development of the Swindon and Wiltshire area and has impacted further afield as well .
“ On behalf of the Board , I would like to thank Paddy for his tireless devotion to championing local growth and facilitating projects that help accelerate economic growth and job creation in the area .”
Paddy said , “ Being CEO of SWLEP is a brilliant job to have . The business concept and implementation to create a not-for-profit company to support the economic growth of our region means it can be effective , ethical and transparent .
“ I want to thank the Board members for their guidance and direction . Their decision to appoint Debby Skellern will ensure the company continues to develop and she is well placed to support the continued growth of the Swindon and Wiltshire economies .“ I also want to thank the many public and private sector partners that I have had the privilege to work with .” Read Paddy ' s final TBE column on page 18 .
THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2023 5