Chamber teams up with Amazon to develop business accelerator programme

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) has teamed up with Amazon UK to introduce a business accelerator programme aimed at helping small firms innovate and grow.

Amazon Innovation Accelerator will select up to 25 businesses from the West Midlands, providing workshops and guidance on topics like tech adoption, leadership, and sustainability.

Held at Amazon’s Sutton Coldfield robotics fulfilment centre, the programme offers hands-on learning experiences.

Eligible businesses must be in manufacturing, engineering, logistics, or related industries, with 50+ employees or £5m+ turnover.

The programme requires participation from a senior staff member in workshops and webinars.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “We know one of the top challenges, and opportunities, for businesses today is keeping pace with advances in technology and business practices. At the Chamber, we’re here to unleash the potential of Greater Birmingham’s businesses. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Amazon on the Amazon Innovation Accelerator.

“They are world-renowned for their cutting-edge approaches to technology and innovation. The Accelerator is a valuable opportunity for businesses in the region to gain direct access to that knowledge and understand how to apply it in their organisations.”

Neil Travis, regional director at Amazon in the UK, said: “The Amazon Innovation Accelerator is all about driving growth in small- and medium-sized businesses, and we’re excited to be working with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and companies from across this region.”

Applications for the Amazon Innovation Accelerator is open today (Monday 11 March) and close on Friday 10 May.