Hub of world class advice

The Growth Hub is staffed by advisers with extensive experience of running firms and has links with industry experts including bosses, consultants, universities, chambers of commerce and local authorities, as well as national bodies including Innovate UK and UKTI.

It will also help companies apply for loans and grants from huge funding pots including the £22m Business Investment Fund, a Skills Bank fund of more than £17m and European Structural Funds of £90m.

Part of the Local Enterprise Partnership, it aims to be a single point of contact for companies in the LEP’s nine local authority areas, from Thorne in the north to Ashbourne in the south.

Head of the SCR Growth Hub, David Grimes, said: “We are working with a wide range of partners which means wherever you are in Sheffield City Region you will have access to the same level of support.

“Whether your business is large or small, new or well established, you will have just one place to go to find out about and access the best possible advice that suits your needs.”

It is overseen by the Business Growth Board, which reports to the LEP. The LEP aims to help create 6,000 businesses and 70,000 private sector jobs by 2025 by encouraging innovation, investment and collaboration.

Paul Houghton, chair of the Business Growth Board, said: “The official launch of the Growth Hub is great news for businesses across our region.

“It is all part of the LEP’s ambitions to grow the city region economy by working together to create a stronger and bigger private sector that can compete in national and global markets.

“Whether you are a creative technology start-up looking for financial advice or business training, a manufacturer looking to export your products to a new overseas market, or any other business looking to grow and expand, then the Growth Hub can help you access the support that you need.”

The Growth Hub can be contacted on 03330 000039, emailing [email protected] or visit www.scrgrowthhub.co.uk