FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR SME's

There is funding out there, it's just getting to it...

On the day that the Government has announced that they are abolishing the Regional Development Agencies and replacing them with Local Enterprise Partnerships, we wanted to remind businesses that there is still funding out there.

We have heard many points of view on the NWDA and to be honest, the majority is not favourable. It always seemed to be a case of who you know rather than what you do and what you need. Their range of support services for business are excellent and in particular the Innovation Vouchers Scheme, however have you ever actually tried to access them? One client of Acorn managed to finally get it on their 5th attempt which was ultimately sent half-hearted anyway. Let's hope the changes ahead bring new possibilities and more business savvy staff. The key in this though is that it still is available despite the difficulties. There is no need to cut off your nose to spite your face in this situation, bite the bullet, keep your cool and smile.....you never know.

There is also the very worthwhile Leadership & Management Fund operated by Business Link that can be used for Mentoring, Coaching, Consultancy or Training. We can offer all the support you need to access this.

What about qualification based training....NVQ's and Apprenticeships? Done in the right way they are extremely valuable to your staff and hence your business. Some staff won't enjoy training, especially as it often leads to nothing but with an NVQ they have a Government recognised qualification that they can be proud of. If you think your staff and business would benefit then please get in touch.

It may be hard to reach sometimes, but it is out there.

The Team @ Acorn Business Performance