Start-ups and SMEs are being supported by Tees Valley Business Compass and Middlesbrough Council, following the success of their Middlesbrough Business Growth Surgery.
Delegates from 16 organisations, including BE Group, FW Capital, UK Steel Enterprise, Clive Owen LLP and the Department for International Trade, were on hand to offer advice and support to businesses from across Tees Valley.
Visitors were able to meet with the delegates for one-on-one sessions covering a range of topics, which included guidance on funding opportunities, improving business technologies, financial advice, apprenticeships and skills training, supply chain development and exporting opportunities.
Held at Middlesbrough Football Club’s Riverside Stadium, the business growth surgery was attended by a range of companies from different sectors, including manufacturing, mechanical and digital and technology.
54 appointments were booked and 14 local businesses were supported on the day, with further support and guidance offered by Tees Valley Business Compass and Middlesbrough Council.
Tees Valley Business Compass is the local growth hub delivered by BE Group on behalf of Tees Valley Combined Authority. The growth hub has received £9,520,000 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund, as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme.
Shak Asghar, Growth Service Manager at Tees Valley Business Compass, said: “Our business growth surgeries have been designed to provide SMEs with as much support as possible from experts and companies from a range of different sectors and disciplines. The Invest in Middlesbrough event was well received and we’ve been able to put aspiring business leaders and SME owners in touch with the right people who can help drive their businesses forward.
“I would like to thank Middlesbrough Council for its support in organising and delivering the growth surgery with our team of specialist advisors who are keen to see businesses thrive across Tees Valley and in the North East.”
Cllr Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development and Infrastructure, said: “These events are hugely important in highlighting the support that is available for business in Middlesbrough. They are also useful to share knowledge and create networks which can help improve outcomes for businesses, workers and the local economy. I’d recommend any local business person to look into what they offer.”