LSBU’s new accelerator programme provides expert support for small and medium-sized businesses
LSBU’s new Momentum accelerator programme provides free expertise and training to ambitious SMEs who want to further develop and growLondon South Bank University (LSBU) has launched Momentum, a free business support programme for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) who want to accelerate their growth.
Last year, small businesses accounted for 99.3% of all private sector businesses, according to the Department of Business Innovation & Skills. LSBU’s Momentum provides SMEs with a comprehensive 12 week programme of expert advice, training and resources.
The programme brings together a unique mix of independent consultants and LSBU’s academic experts to deliver workshops, masterclasses, individual mentoring, networking events and online multimedia learning resources.
Participants on the programme will be trained in a range of areas including business planning and forecasting, efficiency management, digital marketing and leadership.
“LSBU is committed to fostering growth for the UK’s small and medium-sized businesses. This programme will take business-leaders on a journey that will prepare them for investment, expansion, and the rigours of running a successful business in an ever-changing economic landscape,” says Gurpreet Jagpal, Director of Research, Enterprise and Innovation at LSBU.
Momentum follows LSBU’s successful Investment Escalator programme, which concluded in December 2015. During its tenure, Investment Escalator engaged with 594 London-based SMEs, of which 25 entered new sales markets. The programme also led to a total of £950,000 in finance raised, 22 new jobs being created and 68 jobs being saved.
Like Investment Escalator, Momentum is being delivered by Research, Enterprise and Innovation at LSBU, which works with businesses and voluntary organisations helping them to innovate, grow and improve performance.
The team will run two Momentum cohorts, the first of which commences 14 March and the second on 16 May. Each cohort has 30 places available and applications are currently open for both intakes.