GROWing the seeds of local enterprise

Churchgate Academy, the business training arm of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, is launching the 'GROW' programme, which has been designed to enable SMEs to achieve their aspirations for growth with a full range of supporting tools and resources.

Working in conjunction with the Business Growth Hub, the 'GROW' programme will provide support to businesses through action learning, specialist coaching, online toolkits and access to nationally recognised entrepreneurial guest speakers.

The programme is supported by Cardinal Maritime, with the founding CEO, Brian Hay, taking up the role of Programme Ambassador. Wythenshawe-based Cardinal Maritime was established just 14 years ago and the firm has now become the UK's fastest growing logistics provider, enjoying a turnover of in excess of £45m. They have achieved this success by challenging conventional thinking and establishing themselves as trusted partners in the supply chain logistics sector.

Commenting on the 'GROW' programme, Brian Hay, CEO at Cardinal Maritime, said: "I am relishing the opportunity to work, as an Ambassador, with ambitious businesses that want to realise their true potential and create significant business growth. The programme is designed to help equip new and developing businesses with the necessary skills needed to help navigate through one of the most challenging business environments. I truly believe the result will be the creation of the next generation of successful business entrepreneurs".

The programme will focus on a range of topics that address some of the barriers to business growth, including: taking control of business finance, reducing costs through operational efficiency, marketing in the digital age and successfully expanding into new areas.

Lesley Noone, Business Skills Director at Churchgate Academy, said: "The main focus of the 'GROW' programme is to help SMEs strategically plan for business growth and to overcome barriers to success. The programme delivery team includes business specialists with a proven track record in their area of expertise and experience of running their own successful enterprises. Their knowledge and experience will prove invaluable to delegates on the programme."

To apply for the 'GROW' programme, call 0161 359 3405 or e-mail info@churchgate-academy.co.uk