Edge Hill scale-up programme creates 220 jobs

A scale-up programme delivered by Edge Hill University has supported 145 businesses, leading to the creation of 220 jobs.

Delivered by the university’s SME Productivity and Innovation Centre (PIC), the Innovation Sprint Programme supports businesses in Lancashire and the Liverpool City Region to increase their competitiveness and resilience.

On average, SMEs who complete the programme report a 29 per cent increase in growth.

Professor Simon Bolton, director of the SME PIC, said: “During an incredibly challenging period for the SME sector, our Innovation Sprint Programme has helped scores of businesses across Lancashire to emerge from the pandemic stronger.

"Our experts work closely with business leaders to identify their growth needs and the results of the programme speak for themselves, with more than 220 new roles created for employees in the region. We’re looking forward to continuing to build on this success to help maximise growth opportunities for SMEs in the region.”

Debbie Francis, chair of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, said: ''It's great news to hear that the SME PIC's Innovation Sprint Programme has helped so many SMEs increase their competitiveness and resilience in what has been a really challenging time. SMEs are the cornerstone of the Lancashire economy, and it is they who will be instrumental in enabling the county to realise its growth potential, both in terms of productivity and job creation.

“However, in an increasingly competitive landscape, small changes to business processes or the adoption of new technologies can make a huge difference to their ability to grow and create jobs. Programmes such as this provide SMEs with invaluable guidance based on individual business need and growth ambitions.''

• For further Lancashire business news, advice and analysis subscribe to Lancashire Business View or join the LBV Hub from just £2.50 per month. Click here to subscribe now.