New product launch follows mentoring support

Software services firm CCS (2002) Limited is investing £10,000 in the launch of a new SME product after benefiting from a Growth Mentoring programme run by Boost Business Lancashire.

The Rawtenstall-based company’s cloud-based ‘software-as-a-service’ will enable SMEs to manage their cash flow more effectively. The product is called collectyourmoney.co.uk. One new job has already been created and three more will follow later this year.

CCS, which employs five people, currently provides a state-of-the-art credit management software product for large enterprises.

John Leigh, sales and marketing director, said: “Our idea was to make a smaller, web-based offering to help SMEs manage their credit and collect cash that’s owed to them. It’s especially useful for small firms that deal with larger enterprises.”

However, John’s major issue was that after 35 years’ experience in the large corporate sector he was unfamiliar with the SME sector. That meant John was unable to gauge whether the concept would be successful in the market.

John commented: “I met Amin Vepari, operations manager at Community & Business Partners, at an event and he recommended me to the Boost service. After further discussions, I was matched with Carl Bradshaw – an experienced business mentor and entrepreneur.

“Carl gave us the confidence to go for a full market launch. His knowledge and experience have enabled him to enhance our chances of success. His intervention has been timely and helpful. We owe a debt of thanks to Carl and are delighted with his contribution.”

The mentoring programme has involved Carl sharing knowledge and supporting John with insights into the sectors he might approach, the mindset of SME buyers, market advice, social networking tips and input into CCS’s business planning.

Jane Houghton-Fenning, business development director at Community & Business Partners commented: “Carl has an excellent sales and management background and was matched with John following an in-depth diagnostic that identified the specific development needs. “In addition, it was essential that John put aside time to meet Carl and committed the resources to undertake the actions that lead to the business growth. It was a very fruitful mentoring relationship and both parties gained benefit from it.”