This initiative provides crucial assistance in specialist support, peer support, start-up guidance, digital transformation, skills development, and investment readiness.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire said: “The Autumn 2024 Programme is a critical resource for our local businesses. It provides the targeted support that businesses in our region need to innovate, grow, and thrive in today’s competitive environment.
“We’ve designed this programme to make a real difference—whether it’s helping start-ups get off the ground or equipping established businesses with the tools they need to expand. I strongly urge all businesses in York and North Yorkshire to take full advantage of this opportunity and get in touch with the Growth Hub to see how we can help you succeed.”
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The Growth Hub provides personalised help from its business support managers, including specialists in rural, manufacturing, sustainability, and start-ups. This one-to-one support addresses various challenges, from operational issues to strategic planning and growth hurdles.
Businesses can join peer support groups to connect with other leaders from across York and North Yorkshire. These sessions offer a collaborative space to share ideas, learn from each other, and solve common problems together, strengthening the regional business network. Sessions are based across the region and are aimed at key sectors and such as hospitality, recruitment and third sector.
For new entrepreneurs, the programme includes extensive start-up support. This covers access to specialist hubs, the award-winning Strive Live Start-Up Incubator, and a wealth of online resources. Faye Greer-Pickup, the pre-start specialist, is dedicated to helping new business owners turn their ideas into successful ventures.
Elliot Fearn, Managing Director of Data Stream UK, who benefited from the Growth Hub’s Strive Live Start-Up course, now contributes to the Autumn 2024 Programme.
He said: “Strive Live has been instrumental in refining our business model, which has significantly contributed to our success. The Growth Hub has also been invaluable, particularly in helping us develop a strong marketing strategy.
“I’m now excited to give back by delivering bespoke courses on Data Management and AI applications, helping businesses across the region future-proof and digitally transform their operations.”
In today’s digital age, effective online engagement and use of technology is essential. The programme includes 1-1 social media support with Catch Design, a social media webinar series from Hot Toddi, with upcoming courses in data and artificial intelligence.
Businesses can contact Harriet Stainton, the Digital Transformation Specialist, who offers guidance on improving online presence, refining marketing strategies, and enhancing customer engagement.
The programme also focuses on skills development, offering funded courses in areas such as recruitment, leadership, management, team building, and growth. Adrian O’Neill, the Skills Specialist, provides resources to help businesses develop their teams and navigate the range of options on offer.
For businesses seeking funding, the programme has investment readiness support. The offer includes the North Yorkshire Stars course from Lifted Ventures, an online angel investment platform, and opportunities to connect with investors, helping businesses secure the financial backing needed for growth.
The York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub’s Autumn 2024 Programme, launched at C4DI in Northallerton, is designed to help local businesses thrive. Interested businesses are encouraged to visit the Growth Hub’s website or contact them directly for more information.
The Growth Hub is funded by the UK government, with many of its programmes funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as allocated by North Yorkshire Council and City of York Council. Please check the details on individual programme pages for details of how they are funded and rules around eligibility.
