The right support for a changing business landscape

Since March 2020, Lancashire business owners and managers have rallied together like never before to support each other, remain resilient and return their firms to growth.

The Lancashire business community has evolved immeasurably as a result of Covid-19, so what are the current key challenges and opportunities for business leaders and which types of support can they receive?

1. Digital future

Video conferencing is now a key part of business communication and digital channels such as social media are playing a greater role in marketing and sales, with people spending a greater proportion of their day online.

Boost is seeing a rise in the amount of businesses looking for support to implement and maximise their use of digital technologies and accessing the wealth of programmes and knowledge available.

2. A unique position

Different sectors are at very different stages of their Covid-19 recovery. While hospitality and events-facing industries are reopening after months of shutdown, manufacturing and engineering firms have faced different challenges.

Some have been able to trade through the disruptions while others may have even pivoted their business to support the global defence against the pandemic. Brexit is also creating added supply issues for those exporting and importing goods.

Business leaders are asking for support to help manage this transition. Fully funded mentoring is just one of the support options available in Lancashire. Business leaders can access bespoke expert support to help with all stages of recovery and key challenges such as changing international markets.

3. Startup story

New businesses are being created every day in Lancashire as entrepreneurs see opportunities in the post Covid-19 Lancashire economy.

New companies start with a great idea, but entrepreneurs often need some support on the parts of the business which help the idea to grow: finance, marketing, sales and developing a strategy for growth.

Tailored support is available to give them the knowledge to help their business succeed.

4. The F word

For both new and established businesses, funding remains a key topic. Boost can direct businesses to a wealth of funding options, including private sector partners, local authority funds and specific support to help companies recover from Covid-19.

Our Access to Finance service can also help Lancashire business leaders understand and prepare for receiving finance to support their company’s growth.

But business support isn’t always about finance. Boost can help you develop a strategy so you know whether or not you need funding and in what form. Let us work with you by starting a growth conversation.

5. A wealth of funded business support programmes

More people than ever are reviewing their business strategies.

There are more than 70 different funded programmes available in Lancashire in addition to private sector support. Boost can help business owners and managers navigate the business support landscape in Lancashire and access the right support at the right time.

It starts with a conversation. Give our business relationship managers a call to advise you on the right support for your company.

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