The Leadership Whisperers: Aston Centre for Growth helps develop Midlands SMEs

By Emma Taylor, director of Warwickshire-based The Leadership Whisperers 

WEST Midlands small business leaders are reaping the rewards of an exceptional programme designed to help take their business to the next level.

Some 30 like-minded business owners, ambitious to see their enterprise succeed and grow, participated in the Aston Programme for Small Business Growth at Aston University.

Part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the programme included a series of workshops and one-to-one support to build confidence in their leadership, plan for the growth of their business, and develop a unique business network.

Aston Centre for Growth, which delivered the programme, continues its engagement with participants after they have graduated from the programme, supporting their continued growth and involving them in the Aston Business Network.

I joined the programme as I wanted to explore ideas for my business and learn as part of a cohort of growing businesses.

The Leadership Whisperers are currently in start-up mode and have ambitious global plans that we aim to achieve. The experience and knowledge sharing with other participants were a key part of the programme. 

I now have an excellent personal and professional support network of like-minded business owners with whom I can build long-term relationships.

Running a small business can be lonely and isolating; to be in an environment of non-judgement and learning with other business owners in the same situation will help you achieve more.

If you would like to register your interest in future programmes at the Aston Centre for Growth please contact the team via email at centreforgrowth@aston.ac.uk or click here.