A popular programme, which has helped thousands of sole traders and microbusinesses across the UK to grow, is making a come-back to support small firms facing the impact of recession.
It is designed for the UK’s 5.2 million microbusinesses that are not always suited to or eligible for existing business support initiatives, such as the Government-backed Help to Grow scheme.
Small Business Britain’s ‘Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme’ is returning to help supercharge Britain’s smallest firms.
Having already trained 1700 firms, the ‘Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme’ aims to help the UK’s smallest businesses find new avenues for growth in a challenging economy.
Founder of Small Business Britain, Michele Ovens CBE, emphasised the need for targeted help for microbusinesses, “The smallest firms are particularly vulnerable in today’s economic climate, further exacerbated by the challenges posed by the UK recession, these businesses need targeted support to not just survive but thrive.
“They are the backbone of our economy and represent the future of our nation’s prosperity.”
Commencing in April, the six-week programme will be delivered fully online and run in partnership with university ARU Peterborough and global small business platform Xero.
It is designed to fit around existing work commitments and offer inclusive and flexible learning, enabling opportunities for across the UK, and offers mentoring and peer-to-peer support.
Lorna Reeves, owner of MyOhMy Events took part in last year’s Small and Mighty programme to support in planning her business evolution in 2024.
“The Small & Mighty Programme is like no other development series. Whether you are new to business or have been running for a while, the information is invaluable,” said Lorna Reeves.
“The sessions were a great reminder of the fundamentals, as well as how to advance my business. Every session I came away with actionable steps to take.”
Entrepreneurs will receive weekly expert teaching on topics from business strategy and marketing to finance and resilience, along with two hours of free mentoring.
Alex von Schirmeister, Managing Director UK, Xero, said: “It is tough for businesses now. That’s why programmes like Small & Mighty are critical and we can’t wait to help more microbusinesses take the next step on their journey.”
Each business on the Small and Mighty Enterprise programme will also have access to a supportive network of small businesses to share questions, challenges, and solutions, and receive guidance to create an action plan to support their next year of opportunity.
Dr Tom Williamson, Assistant Principal of ARU Peterborough, said: “Our experts in business, management and finance helped 1700 small businesses to ‘think big’ last autumn, and we cannot wait to help a new group of microbusinesses.”
To celebrate the graduation of businesses from the programme, a hybrid online and real-world event will be held in London June 2024.
Small businesses can sign up to take part in the programme here https://smallbusinessbritain.uk/small-and-mighty
