Free support event in Solihull to help businesses grow

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and Solihull council are holding a free event for local businesses and entrepreneurs to highlight and share the support available to them.

The event, which takes place on Tuesday 21 November at the Cranmore Park Conference Centre in Shirley, is targeted at small and medium enterprises (SMEs), those seeking to start their own business, and influential members of the business community.

Help will be on offer to businesses with exploring funding opportunities to fuel their growth, while all the latest programmes available through the new Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) service will be outlined.

Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) is a newly established business support service in partnership with the region’s seven local authorities, set up to help new businesses access skills, training, and job opportunities.

BGWM is part of the WMCA’s wider ‘Plan For Growth’ - a path to help the region to return to pre-pandemic growth levels. In the decade to 2019, the West Midlands broke through the £100 billion economic output mark as the fastest growing-region outside of London.

The initiative, set up by the WMCA, is funded by a £42 million investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. There is no cost to businesses who take advantage of the support, programmes and events.

Services offered by the BGWM include individual and tailored business growth plans, access to small business grants and a range of free business support programmes across sustainability, innovation and access to finance.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, and Chair of the WMCA, said: “Our region has proven to be a great place to grow a business. Our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises, and startups is unwavering.

"That’s why we set up Business Growth West Midlands - to provide not just the opportunities but the support that enables businesses to thrive.

“This event in Solihull will showcase to local businesses the options available to them. We continue to be dedicated to helping businesses and the communities around them to flourish. I would encourage those who are interested to register for this free event.”

Attendees at the launch of Business Growth West Midlands

Cllr Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council and the lead member for the economy at Solihull, said: "Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) is playing a vital role in driving our local economy forward and I am pleased to see this service research SMEs across the region.

“BGWM demonstrates our commitment to helping businesses in Birmingham and Solihull succeed by providing them with the support and opportunities they need.

“We want to return to pre-pandemic growth levels and are making good progress. The success of the West Midlands, as the fastest growing region outside of London, is testament to our businesses and business leaders.

“We look forward to welcoming new entrepreneurs, business leaders, and aspiring startups to be part of the region’s continuing economic growth and success."

To register for the free event click here.