The Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham has launched a programme which helps selected small businesses expand into international markets.
The Global Scale-up Programme, established by Manchester not-for-profit organisation The Growth Company, will give 30 SMEs access to peer-to-peer opportunities and the GC Business Growth Hub networks to create a global scale-up community for the region.
Mr Burnham urged the first cohort of SMEs on the programme to seize the opportunity to “get the global reach they want”.
The programme will give the SMEs access to a global market entry network alongside a combination of tailored coaching, international growth sprints and regular bootcamps.
The Growth Company will aim to refine and identify target markets for each client to ensure they are fully prepared before each international visit, with support ranging from strategy development to pitch practice.
The Growth Company, which is dedicated to economic development, inward investment, skills, employment and enterprise in the region, selected the businesses from more than 200 applications to partake in its new programme.
Richard Jeffery, The Growth Company’s director of business growth, said: “Having seen such a high calibre of applicants to the programme, it’s been a real pleasure to see our first cohort together for the first time.
“There was great energy in the room, and I’m excited to see how the businesses respond to the high-level opportunities we’re offering on the programme and take their rightful place on the global stage.”
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Delegates at the launch were addressed by Mr Jeffery, as well as Dom McGregor, chief operating officer at Social Chain, who revealed his experiences of expanding into international markets.
The event also saw participants introduced to programme partners KPMG, Santander, DWF and Manchester Airport.
Nicola Quayle, KPMG Manchester office senior partner, said: “The launch event was all about connecting our team of experts with a group of start ups and fast-growth businesses right at the start of their journey on this programme.
“We are thrilled to be working with some of the most promising enterprises in the city region and can’t wait to get stuck in, whether that means helping to access funding, creating partnerships, navigating governance in new markets or finding the right talent.
“Opening up our international network of consultants and contacts will offer a great opportunity for these businesses to fulfil their international growth ambitions.”