York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub Rolls Out New Autumn 2024 Programme to Empower Local Businesses

The York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub has launched its Autumn 2024 Programme, offering a range of tailored support to businesses across the region. Unveiled at C4DI in Northallerton—a vibrant tech hub—this initiative provides crucial assistance in one-to-one specialist support, peer support, start-up guidance, digital transformation, skills development, and investment readiness.

David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, highlighted the significance of the programme. He said “The Autumn 2024 Programme is a critical resource for our local businesses. It provides the targeted support that businesses in our region need to innovate, grow, and thrive in today’s competitive environment. We’ve designed this programme to make a real difference. Whether it’s helping start-ups get off the ground or equipping established businesses with the tools they need to expand. I strongly urge all businesses in York and North Yorkshire to take full advantage of this opportunity. Get in touch with the Growth Hub to see how we can help you succeed.”

1-1 Specialist Support

The Growth Hub provides personalised help from its team of business support managers, including specialists in rural, manufacturing, sustainability, and start-ups. This one-to-one support addresses various challenges, from operational issues to strategic planning and growth hurdles.

Peer Support

Businesses can join peer support groups to connect with other leaders from across York and North Yorkshire. These sessions offer a collaborative space to share ideas, learn from each other, and solve common problems together, strengthening the regional business network. Sessions are based across the region and are aimed at key sectors and such as hospitality, recruitment and third sector.

Start-Up Support

For new entrepreneurs, the programme includes extensive start-up support. This covers access to specialist hubs, the award-winning Strive Live Start-Up Incubator, and a wealth of online resources. Faye Greer-Pickup, the pre-start specialist, is dedicated to helping new business owners turn their ideas into successful ventures.

Elliot Fearn, Managing Director of Data Stream UK, who benefited from the Growth Hub’s Strive Live Start-Up course, now contributes to the Autumn 2024 Programme. “Strive Live has been instrumental in refining our business model, which has significantly contributed to our success. The Growth Hub has also been invaluable, particularly in helping us develop a strong marketing strategy. I’m now excited to give back by delivering bespoke courses on Data Management and AI applications, helping businesses across the region future-proof and digitally transform their operations.” he said.

Digital Transformation

In today’s digital age, effective online engagement and use of technology is essential. The programme includes

• 1-1 social media support with Catch Design
• a social media webinar series from Hot Toddi
• upcoming courses in data and artificial intelligence

Businesses can contact Harriet Stainton, the Digital Transformation Specialist, who offers guidance on improving online presence, refining marketing strategies, and enhancing customer engagement.

Skills Development

The programme also focuses on skills development, offering funded courses in areas such as

• recruitment
• leadership
• management
• team building
• growth

Adrian O’Neill, the Skills Specialist, provides resources to help businesses develop their teams and navigate the range of options on offer.

Investment Readiness

For businesses seeking funding, the programme has investment readiness support. The offer includes the North Yorkshire Stars course from Lifted Ventures, an online angel investment platform, and opportunities to connect with investors. These measures will help businesses secure the financial backing needed for growth.

UK Shared Prosperity Fund for Autumn 2024 Programme

The Growth Hub is funded by the UK government, with many of its programmes funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as allocated by North Yorkshire Council and City of York Council. Please check the details on individual programme pages for details of how they are funded and rules around eligibility.