Support network for Manchester firms

Business leaders in the Hospitality, Leisure Digital, Creative & Tech industries in Greater Manchester have joined an online network to support their SMEs’ pandemic recovery and boost growth.

Peer Networks unites small groups of up to 11 owners, senior managers, and directors to address their challenges, devise solutions, and share their expertise and experience in structured sessions. The programme also provides access to one-to-one mentoring.

More than 300 SMEs in the area have already taken part in the interactive initiative.

The groups selected for each network are specifically chosen to ensure business leaders are well matched and coming together in a non-competitive environment, where they can share ideas, contacts and advice, and get valuable feedback. All topics discussed in the sessions are selected by the individuals in the group.

Funded by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the programme is being delivered  by GC Business Growth Hub, part of The Growth Company.

Dawn Duggan, Head of People, Skills & Talent (pictured) said: “At such a challenging time for SMEs, being able to dedicate a few hours each month to speak openly about your challenges and opportunities with similar businesses is priceless.

“We sometimes assume we can resolve our problems ourselves, but it’s extremely useful to get an outside perspective from experienced peers with professional facilitators.

“They will support you and your group of fellow business leaders, as you work together to problem solve and share ideas to create tangible solutions in a confidential setting.”

More about Peer Networks, here