“66% of participants indicated that, compared to the same period in the previous 12 months, their turnover had increased.”
Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is a regional leader in providing specialised support for small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). Delivering from their Centre for Enterprise, MMU have worked with over 2,000 of the most ambitious business owners in the North West.
With core knowledge in entrepreneurial leadership, growth, enterprise and sustainability, the Centre for Enterprise delivers a range of national and international programmes aimed at directly encouraging economic growth.
As one of only four UK delivery partners for the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses programme, MMU have significantly contributed to the international success of the programme.
77% of participants reported that they had increased the number of people they employed in the previous 12 months and 66% of participants indicated that, compared to the same period in the previous 12 months, their turnover had increased.
The 10,000 Small Businesses programme is designed specifically for leaders of established small businesses who have the ambition and the potential to generate substantial growth in their enterprises. Participation is by competitive entry and is fully funded by the Goldman Sachs Foundation for successful candidates.
Amanda Ball of AD Sprinklers Ltd. said of the programme:
“We are on track to hit our target at the end of our first year post-programme. That’s 100% growth in 12 months. The skills the programme helped me to develop have been invaluable.”
“The time spend outside the business in an educational environment was priceless.”
Similarly, the Knowledge Action Network programme, funded by ERDF, is also helping the region’s SMEs to achieve a step change in business performance. Participants benefit from a full package of support with a strong focus on structured peer learning and the creation of communities of entrepreneurs.
The participants are making a significant contribution to the local economy: a recent study of 85 SMEs showed they generated a collective turnover increase of £47million and 344 new jobs since engaging with MMU.
Chris Purcell of Manchester and Cheshire Construction Co Ltd. talking of the programme said:
“The time spend outside the business in an educational environment was priceless.”
In recognition of the role it has played in helping to kick-start British enterprise, MMU is celebrating after being awarded an inaugural Small Business Charter mark at a prestigious 10 Downing Street ceremony.
Professor Lynn Martin, Director of the Centre for Enterprise, said:
“Small businesses are fundamental to economic growth and innovation, creating new jobs and generating wealth. We work very hard at MMU to help small businesses to establish, grow and thrive. Our alumni are testament to this, showing how business can really be done.”
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