Scheme helping SMEs grow has just got bigger
Help to Grow connects local small businesses with academics and professionals
A fully-funded programme for managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the East of England is expanding to help more businesses to grow.
The 12-week Help to Grow: Management programme is designed to connect ambitious SME leaders with leading academics and experienced business professionals.
Through interactive workshops, peer networking opportunities, and dedicated one-on-one mentoring, participants gain practical tools aimed at boosting operational efficiency and elevating business performance.
The course focuses on crucial business areas, including leadership and strategy; marketing and international markets; financial management; and employee engagement.
The programme also integrates participants into a network of over 140 successful alumni who continue to benefit from ongoing connections and shared experiences.
The course is 90% Government-funded and is delivered by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Cambridge and Chelmsford. ARU is now offering a fully-funded bursary to cover the remaining 10% of costs for eligible businesses, making the course available free to participants upon successful completion.
“The Help to Grow programme is instrumental in equipping business owners with the essential knowledge and skills needed for sustainable growth and innovation. We are delighted to expand its reach, further strengthening our commitment to supporting the regional business community and fostering a vibrant alumni network.”
Fiona McGonigle, Programme Manager and Business Engagement and Innovation Lead at ARU
“This unique programme helps share cutting-edge business models and novel research findings from academia directly to business executives. Our goal is to improve their enterprise innovation, profitability, and overall growth strategies.”
Dr Frank Nyame-Asiamah, Director of the Help to Grow: Management programme at ARUThe next course begins in Cambridge on 19 September 2025, with an additional cohort starting in Chelmsford on 9 January 2026.
For more information, contact [email protected]