NatWest relaunches programme in support of business growth

NatWest have relaunched their Accelerator programmes in support of the sustainable economic recovery of local businesses.

The accelerator programmes have run successfully for more than six years from the Entreprenurial Hub in Birmingham.

Continuing the support for SME 's throughout the Midlands, the programmes will focus on helping these businesses to develop and grow in business sectors that will be key drivers in the future economy.

This includes specialised programmes for high growth businesses, as well was climate, Fintech, and purpose-led businesses.

Applications for the next intake of businesses to join the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator are open until 11 June, with the programme beginning on the 28 June for six months.

The programme is open to existing NatWest customers in a business or commercial capacity.

Josh Winfield (pictured), regional ecosystem manager for NatWest in the Midlands said: “As the economy continues to recover, it 's absolutely vital that we support businesses to develop and grow.

These tailored Accelerator programmes will bring together likeminded businesses to receive peer support, monthly coaching from our experienced Entrepreneur Acceleration Managers, and access to our Entrepreneurial Hubs to collaborate. ”

One business reporting a positive experience with the programme is KMB Shipping who provide freight forwarding and total transport solutions, including worldwide road, sea and air freight options.

KMB director Paul Hull joined the Accelerator following a MBO of the business which was established in 1987.

Being on the programme allowed him to develop a business strategy that has helped to deliver KMB Shipping 's best financial year in 2020 which saw a 20 per cent increase in profit and sales.

Paul said: “My time on the programme allowed for me to focus on the business instead of being inside the business. When you are running a business, it can be easy to fall into a trap where you are getting through the day to day successfully but not thinking about things long-term.

Being on the programme has contributed to us being able to succeed over the last year. Like a lot of businesses, we had a lot of change over the last year, but Josh as my mentor and (Regional Enterprise Director) James Powell kept me motivated. ”

In addition to its Accelerator programmes, NatWest offers its Business Builder programme - a digital library of resources and live sessions for businesses and entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey.

For more information contact the NatWest Acceleration team at [email protected]