The Power of Peer Support: New Initiatives Launching this September

This September, the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub is launching three new fully-funded peer support initiatives to offer North Yorkshire businesses a structured and collaborative environment to work on their business with the people who know best – other business leaders.

By participating in regular sessions amongst a small group of non-competing peers, attendees can gain impartial advice, fresh perspective, and tailor-made solutions to take their business to the next level.

Starting on 22^nd September, the Peer-to-Peer Programme with Pro-Development focuses on strategy, growth, and direction. Combining peer support sessions with one-on-one mentoring, this programme provides tools to create focus when needed most.

Pro-Development Managing Director Michelle Mook said, “It can be lonely leading a business. You don’t always have someone to bounce ideas off and debate a new path forward. Or share the excitement of a hard-fought win. Peer support is proven to enhance a business leader’s confidence more than 33%, and Pro-Development have been running action learning and peer groups for business leaders and directors interested in really learning and growing in a group setting and believe they make a big difference to future success.”

Kicking off on 27^th September in Harrogate, RTC North’s Innovation Knowledge Exchange Forums tap into the power of group learning across critical topics like innovation, recruitment, resilience, and leadership. With supplementation from sector research and coaching, attendees can collaborate to put new skills into practice. Sharing real experiences, debating ideas, and strengthening capabilities helps future-proof businesses.

Finally, the Women Connect Peer to Peer Board by Yorkshire in Business is ideal for female entrepreneurs on the Yorkshire Coast who want to build connections and get empowered to grasp new opportunities. Starting on 27^th September and delivered through a mix of online and in-person meetings, attendees can get advice targeted to their obstacles and have a mentor to keep them accountable.

Jenn Crowther, CEO of Yorkshire in Business, said “Think of it as having your own professionally facilitated informal board. Women Connect is designed for businesswomen invested in developing their business and helping others to do the same.”

These initiatives create space for business leaders to work on their company’s future, not just day-to-day operations. By coming together as peers first and competitors second, attendees can bring back fresh approaches to strengthen leadership, refine strategy, and unlock their company’s full potential.

These three programmes run through to March 2024 and will be followed by a further slate of support from the Growth Hub launching in October and November. Fully funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, they require no financial commitment besides time. Eligible businesses must be located in the North Yorkshire Council area.

For further information and registration for our September Peer Support programmes, visit the York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub website at www.ynygrowthhub.com/events or email support@ynygrowthhub.com

Register your interest in all our peer support programmes here: