Front (left to right): Fiona Stevenson, Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Janette Pallas; Back (left to right): Neil Stevenson, Nigel Maris, David Ayton-Hill
An innovative business support programme has launched a new networking group to help ambitious businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire develop their potential.
The University of Warwick Science Park’s Business Ready programme hosted the inaugural meeting of the GrowthPlus Network.
Firms who have been helped by the scheme were invited along to the event to see what the group was all about, and how it could help them with their long term plans.
Business Ready advisors selected each firm on the basis they would benefit from meeting like-minded peers and shared expertise, and that they exceeded the threshold criteria for inclusion. Invitations were extend to ambitious companies that had a turnover in excess of £1M, at least 10 employees, and an appetite to grow.
Janette Pallas, Business Ready programme manager for the University of Warwick Science Park, said the new group was a great way for businesses to learn from each other and help them thrive and grow.
“We have started the GrowthPlus Network specifically for growing companies that Business Ready has given assistance to, but are still aspiring and looking to grow further,” said Janette.
“It is these kind of firms, who have ambition for sustained growth and increased capability, that we believe can benefit from this group.
“Bringing people together from many different sectors means that they can share ideas, which may prove useful and encourage peer-group learning.
“I would like to thank everyone who came along to the very first meeting; for their inputs and participation. We look forward to seeing them at our next event and facilitating the opportunities that come along with the group.”
Businesses that participate in the network have the opportunity to meet five times per year, hear from specialist speakers, visit businesses sites, access special high-growth advisors and much more.
The first meeting went ahead at the University of Warwick Science Park’s Warwick Innovation Centre and the keynote speaker for the breakfast event was Cllr Izzi Seccombe, leader of Warwickshire County Council, which co-funds the programme.
“The Business Ready scheme is an extremely valuable tool for businesses throughout Coventry and Warwickshire and that is why Warwickshire County Council helps to fund it and work with the University,” said Izzi.
“We live in a world of partnership. Groups like this bring businesses together, helping with best practice and forging relationships.
“It is extremely positive to see so many companies with ambitions for growth. This group will be vital as we move to further improve the economy of the region.”
The Business Ready programme is being delivered by the University of Warwick Science Park as part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme and is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Warwickshire County Council.
