The Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Markets Paul Scully MP, visited the University of Liverpool to discuss the Management School’s successful roll out of the 90% Government funded Help to Grow programme.
Paul Scully, the MP for Sutton and Cheam, was met by University Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Impact, Professor Anthony Hollander, and James Coe, Head of Sustainability, Policy and Civic Engagement, before sitting down for a round table discussion in the Management School atrium.
Joining the discussion was Professor Sue Bridgewater, Management School Director of Executive Education; Management School Client Director, Iona Thomson; and Denise Wright, Management School Executive Education and CPD officer.
The group was also joined by representatives from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.
Speaking after the meeting, Professor Sue Bridgewater said: “We were delighted to meet the Minister and his team to discuss how we are involved with the Help to Grow programme.”
Iona Thomson, who led recruitment to the scheme for the University, added: “It’s an honour for the school to be recognised for its success, and for the Minister to be pleased with the support we are giving to the programme and the way it contributes to the local economy.”
In response to demand, the Management School is running two cohorts through the programme between October and March, with plans to open up to applications again for an additional course running between March and September 2022.
Accredited by the Small Business Charter, the 12 week practical programme covers key aspects of business and management, including finance and strategies for growth and innovation.
Participants benefit from 1-1 business mentoring, with the aim of finishing the course with a tailored business growth action plan.
The first Help to Grow cohorts at the Management School include small manufacturers, social enterprises and larger commercial enterprises, among others, with Iona Thomson praising the “real diversity” of the programme participants.
Paul Scully MP said: “Seizing opportunity is what being a business leader is all about, and our Help to Grow Management Scheme gives entrepreneurs the chance to access the very best advice on how to innovate, reach new customers and boost profits.
“The practical training scheme is 90% funded by the government and designed around busy business owners’ schedules, so I would encourage entrepreneurs in Liverpool and across the UK to get involved and maximise the potential of their business.”
Following the round table discussion, the Minister for Small Business was accompanied to the Foundation Building for a sit down lunch with academics from the School of Engineering; as well as representatives from Careers and Employability, IP Commercialisation, the University Council and Liverpool Science Park.
To find out more about the Help to Grow Management Scheme, please visit www.liverpool.ac.uk/management/for-business/help-to-grow/