Lead programme from University of Cumbria

Yesterday I met Rachel Sturret from the University of Cumbria who told me about their 'Lead Programme' for small businesses looking to move on to their next stage of growth. I'll probably be running a workshop on the programme sometime in March.

In essence, this is a 10 month programme aimed at owner managed SMEs with more than 5 employees. It's a sort of 'mini MBA' programme to help businesses grow and develop. The NorthWest Development Agency is subsidising the places. Normally it would cost around £6k. However, the NWDA will cover £4000 of the cost, and there is a little additional funding available in Cumbria to pay a further £700.00. This means for any companies taking part, they will only have to pay £1300.00 for a programme worth £6000.

Anyway, it looks like an excellent programme - my only regret is that I can't take part myself (I don't have any other employees).

For further information, and to find out about some taster sessions around the NW, you can get details from: www.businesslinknw.co.uk/lead