Chamber launches third cohort of Start-Up and Small Business Academy

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) has launched the third cohort of the Start-Up and Small Business Academy.

The Academy supports strong business growth and provide access to regional leading experts on key business pillars.  It is a structured programme of workshops and in addition offers peer support and an opportunity to be mentored upon completing the programme.

Applications for the academy are now open until 16 February. Click here to apply. The first session will commence on 23 February from 9.30am.

The Academy is ideal for:

• Businesses looking for bite size but in-depth business sessions from experts on challenging areas that could be holding them back
• Businesses needing a refresher on key business basics and looking to gain new insights from experts
• Businesses looking to create structure for growth who have started within the last 12 months
• Businesses who would benefit from the support and accountability of their peers

The Academy offers six half day in depth sessions with leading experts giving their advice and insights to support small businesses saving their valuable time and money.

The Academy is not a series of one off events, but an application only programme that brings together likeminded and committed  business owners. To date it has supported over 50 small businesses.

The Academy Programme includes;

• Business planning and growth
• Financial forecasting and cashflow
• Marketing
• Productivity and processes
• Closing sales with ease
• People management and mindset

Henrietta Brealey CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce said: “At the Chamber, we want to use our network to connect our small business members to the highest quality advice, insight and support to help them on their journeys.

“We are delighted to launch the third cohort of our Start-Up and Small Business Academy, ensuring our members have free access to the expertise that can help them best develop their businesses.” 

“Small businesses are the heart of our economy and make up the overwhelming majority of businesses in the UK. They are entrepreneurial, agile and in many cases, have huge potential to grow.”

Holly Vaughan from The Recruitment Duo who took part in a previous academy said: “The Academy has enabled us to enter into a scale up phase of our business, by providing a toolkit to ensure the right foundations are in place for our business.

“It has opened our eyes to look at our business holistically and recognise opportunities for growth. We loved the Academy for providing a safe place for us, and in particular the fun and camaraderie at each session.

“If you want to invest in yourself and your business, then look no further than this incredible Academy – even more amazing that it’s a free resource to you providing access to experts in their field.”

Amina Hussain from SME Outsourcing who delivers the finance module said: “I am delighted to be  supporting local businesses by adding value to the Academy .

“With 24 years of experience in accounting, finance and restructuring, I know that the companies who take part in this programme will walk away with some great points and procedures that they can use in their current business model."