Published: Friday 23rd October 2015 | 11.52am
Existing companies or those looking to start a new business across the District are urged to take advantage of a new one-stop-shop for support for businesses.
The Growth Hub which launched on 7th October, is run by the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP), it comprises a web portal, phoneline and one-to-one specialist advice. It is the new home for all business advice, funding and support in the area – providing a route for businesses to local organisations offering business support or funding.
Though particularly focused on small and medium sized businesses within the Greater Birmingham area, which includes Cannock Chase District the Growth Hub is designed to assist companies throughout the region’s supply chains and across all sectors.
The Growth Hub’s web portal enables business owners to access information and advice about how to start, grow, run and finance their company effectively. Its tailored information directs users to the most appropriate information and support for them. Downloadable step by step guides, films and free event listings are also available online.
Councillor Gordon Alcott, Portfolio Leader for Economic Development and Planning said “The Growth Hub has launched as a one-stop-shop of support for businesses in Cannock Chase District. It is designed to make it easier for businesses to find the support they need from recruiting, securing funding, exporting and lots more.
I would urge companies across Cannock Chase to take advantage of this initiative, which aims to assist 10,000 businesses and create 500 new local jobs within the GBSLEP area.”
Cannock-based SK Direct (UK) Limited, which imports and converts adhesive industrial tapes, has already used services that are now available through the Growth Hub. It secured £13,000 of Business Development Programme grant funding, which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund, enabling the firm to expand its premises and create one extra full-time post.
Don Brown, Co-Owner of SK Direct (UK) Limited said ”The help and support from the Cannock Economic Development team preparing and completing the application was excellent; the actual approval process through Birmingham City Council’s Business Development & Innovation Team took less than 2 weeks after submission. This will certainly make a big difference to SK Direct’s continued growth.”
The Hub is already progressing strongly and can be accessed by visiting www.gbslepgrowthhub.co.uk, calling 0800 032 3488 or emailing info@gbslepgrowthhub.co.uk