Business news from across the North West highlights significant developments in start-up support, educational initiatives, growth in the tech sector, and new partnerships.
The region is witnessing an impressive array of advancements, reflective of a strong entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to professional development.
Support for Start-Ups in Cheshire
The Start-Up Loans programme, an initiative of the British Business Bank, disclosed the provision of 544 loans worth £6 million to businesses in Cheshire West and Chester. Notably, 39% of these loans were allocated to female-founded businesses, representing over £2 million. Moreover, 62 loans were issued to entrepreneurs aged between 18-24 years, amounting to more than £455,000, underlining the bank’s commitment to supporting underrepresented founders.
Since the programme’s inception in 2012, businesses in the North West have received nearly £140 million in financing. This places the region above the South East and second only to London concerning the value of loans granted to businesses under three years old. “The entrepreneurial talent in this region is evident through its flourishing small business community,” stated Delyth Edwards, Senior Network Manager for the North West at the British Business Bank.
SAS Daniels: Renewed Partnership
The North West law firm has extended its long-standing partnership with a local football club for an additional two years. This agreement includes branding around the stadium and matchday hospitality, as well as back-of-shirt sponsorship for the Women’s First Team.
Justine Clowes, business owner and partner, expressed her delight in continuing the sponsorship, especially after witnessing the team’s success in winning the league and cup double last season. Bob Trafford, Head of Commercial and Sponsorships, acknowledged the firm’s loyalty and its synonymous association with the Women’s First Team.
digitaltravel.io’s Remarkable Growth
Liverpool-based technology start-up digitaltravel.io has seen substantial financial growth since its founding three years ago.
The company, which specialises in digital travel solutions, particularly for the cruise industry, has achieved over £1 million in annual revenue in its third year, up from £250,000 in its first year. CEO Peter Whittle credited the firm’s talented team, loyal clients and strong partnerships for exceeding expectations.
Skills Network’s Educational Initiatives
The Skills Network, one of the largest online education providers in the UK, is now offering a Skills Bootcamp in Leadership and Management for those in Lancashire. This Government-funded, 12-week course aims to address local skill gaps and promote professional development across various sectors.
Businesses can upskill their employees affordably, with small and medium employers required to cover only 10% of training fees and large employers 30%. “This is an invaluable opportunity for those living in Lancashire,” stated Wendy Dodson, Projects Director at The Skills Network. Dr Michele Lawty-Jones, Director of the Lancashire Skills and Employment Hub, highlighted the importance of these skills as identified in the Local Skills Improvement Plan.
New Apprentices at LSH Auto
LSH Auto has welcomed 20 new apprentices to its teams across several locations, including Stockport and Birmingham. The apprenticeships are run in partnership with a leading academy, which receives over 10,000 applications yearly, narrowing them down to approximately 250.
Danielle Reynolds, an apprentice, switched careers from dog walking to pursue her interest in automotive technology. She expressed her enthusiasm for being successful in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Another apprentice, Jack Davis, appreciated the apprenticeship as an excellent opportunity to work with a prestigious brand and gain valuable experience.
HMG Paints and FC United Partnership
HMG Paints has become the ‘Official Paint Partner’ of FC United of Manchester. The agreement includes supplying paints and protective coatings for the club’s stadium and supporting various community projects.
Paul Haworth, FC United’s Commercial Manager, expressed gratitude for HMG Paints’ support, which he described as “amazing.” Paddy Dyson, HMG’s Marketing Manager, noted that the club’s community commitment aligns with the company’s values.
M&Y Construction’s New Framework Appointment
M&Y Construction has been appointed to a national procurement consortium’s framework for Planned Works, valued at £25 million. The consortium, dedicated to the social housing sector, includes prominent industry bodies and serves over 75% of the UK’s social housing stock.
Kevin Moses, Director of Operations, highlighted the recognition of M&Y as a leading contractor in the North West. The company’s commitment to Health & Safety and social value played a significant role in securing this appointment.
James Lines, Senior Category Manager at the procurement consortium, lauded the framework’s potential to deliver high-quality, planned works that meet current and future needs, while fostering efficiencies and training opportunities within communities.
The North West continues to demonstrate robust business growth and innovation across various sectors. From supporting start-ups and apprenticeships to professional development and community partnerships, the region is thriving.
These developments reflect the ongoing commitment of local businesses and institutions to invest in talent, foster inclusivity, and contribute to the community’s overall economic prosperity.