Stockport launches programme of business support
STOCKPORT Business and Innovation Centre (SBIC) is launching a hunt for entrepreneurial talent in Stockport.
Pioneer 10 is aimed at early stage businesses who are keen to grow along with established businesses looking to innovate and/or enter new markets, giving them access to a free business award and growth coaching programme.
The scheme will find and support the region’s top ‘pioneers’ over a 10 month period.
A judging panel including business experts from Gorvins, Clarke Nicklin, Royal Bank of Scotland, Appleyard Lees (patent attorney), Souter PR, Stockport Council, Tangent Design, Zoom Media and Novomodo (business innovation support) will select ten of the pioneering businesses to receive one-to-one coaching and guidance.
Two Pioneer10 entrepreneurs will be selected at the final awards event – a winner and runner up – for a longer term, high impact business support package worth £15,000 – leveraging the resources of Oxford Innovation, SBIC & the Pioneer 10 partners.
Tony Corcoran, Incubation director at SBIC, said: “It is the perfect platform for people who have all the drive and ambition required, but are looking for an effective way to move their game-changing ideas forward.”
Caroline Simpson, corporate director for place management and regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “Stockport Business and Innovation Centre has already proved itself to be a very effective partner in supporting companies to grow – Pioneer 10 seeks to identify businesses that, with support, can make an impact in the local economy.
“This initiative is not just for young businesses facing the next steps, but also for established small businesses who want to support an innovation in a new direction. As such, it presents an exciting opportunity for any forward thinking small business or entrepreneur.”
SBIC provides flexible office space specifically aimed at nurturing fledgling businesses and offers mentoring and support to help start-ups and young businesses develop and deliver a robust business plan. The facility is managed by Oxford Innovation and owned by Stockport Council.
