Businesses across Lincolnshire, particularly those involved in advanced engineering, manufacturing and logistics, are running out of time to bid for business support and grant funding worth up to £10,000.
Thanks to a University of Lincoln growth programme, funded by the ERDF, partcipants in the Accelerator programme have the opportunity to pitch for funding of up to £10,000 to help them implement and fulfil their growth plans. The scheme is unique, with no other business support programme providing this type of grant funding.
Rebecca Webster, the programme lead, said: “Part of the University’s remit is to drive productivity and growth in Greater Lincolnshire, and we believe that there are real growth opportunities across the county. The Business Accelerator programme is there to support ambitious entrepreneurs in these sectors that are looking to accelerate the growth of their businesses.
“Many of the business that have been put through the accelerator programme are already experiencing growth as a result of changes and improvements that have been implemented.”
“The final Accelerator programme, and therefore the final opportunity to bid for a grant up to £10,000, is running in September 2022 so we would urge applicants to sign up sooner rather than later to see if they are eligible.”
The programme, which is part of a wider University of Lincoln Productivity Programme aimed at SMEs across Greater Lincolnshire, will run until June 2023, and also includes 12 hours free business support for any SME within the area.
Rebecca Webster adds: “Our Business Development programme is designed to help any SME in any sector across Lincolnshire, including start-ups, that are looking to grow and to increase productivity and profitability.”
The 12 hours free business support can be used however a company would like, from general business advice to marketing to even sitting in on recruitment interviews. All supported by a series of free workshops and networking events.
Emma Bunn, a local branding photographer is one of over 150 SMEs to go through the programme: “I loved my time with the Productivity HUBs team. I learnt so much, met so many amazing people and challenged myself to try new things.
“The excitement and passion the team has in supporting local businesses, in a variety of sectors, is infectious and inspiring. I have found the meetings and workshops incredibly useful, insightful and informative.
“To every business owner in Lincolnshire, you must take a look, chat with the team and find out more about this amazing opportunity for you and your business.”
For more information and to apply, please visit www.productivityhubs.co.uk or call Gary Mumby on 07989 868 968 or email gmumby@lincoln.ac.uk.