A government-backed programme aimed at strengthening leadership and accelerating growth among small and medium-sized businesses is to launch in Northamptonshire.
The University of Northampton will deliver the Help to Grow programme for the first time this November, giving senior business leaders access to 12 weeks of management training, peer networking and one-to-one mentoring.
The course will cover strategy, leadership, digital transformation, marketing, productivity and entering new markets. Participants will apply the learning to their own organisations and produce a growth action plan for their business.
The Help to Grow programme is open to senior decision-makers at established SMEs employing between five and 249 people. It combines online and face-to-face sessions and has been structured to fit around the demands of running a business.
Dr Al-Amin Dabo, Associate Professor and Help to Grow lead at the University of Northampton, said: “Running and growing a business can leave very little time to step away from day-to-day pressures and think strategically about what comes next.
“Help to Grow creates that opportunity. It gives business leaders access to practical expertise, mentoring and a network of other SME leaders facing many of the same challenges, while helping them develop a clear plan for the next stage of their business.”
More than 10,000 business leaders have enrolled on the programme nationally since its launch in 2021. Independent research has found evidence of improvements in leadership practices, management confidence and awareness of the factors affecting business growth and productivity.
The course is valued at £7,500, with 90 per cent of the cost funded by the Government. Participants would usually pay the remaining £750.
A limited number of bursaries are being made available by the University of Northampton to cover that contribution. Eligible business leaders who secure a bursary will therefore be able to take part without paying the remaining course fee.
Dr Dabo added: “Bringing Help to Grow to Northamptonshire for the first time means local businesses can access this nationally recognised programme here in the county.
“We are keen to hear from ambitious SME leaders who want to invest time in strengthening their leadership, developing their business and preparing for the opportunities and challenges ahead.”
The university’s first Help to Grow programme will begin in November 2026 and run until March 2027. Places are limited.
Businesses can check their eligibility and register for the November cohort through the Small Business Charter website.
