http://www.nwda.co.uk/docs/SupportforNorthwestBusiness_19thMar09 by Northwest Regional Development Agency

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Steve Bennett Chair, Business Support Simplification Programme Regional Transition Management Board

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Simplifying Business Support in the economic downturn Anne Boyd BSSP Regional Lead

How does BSSP support the economic downturn?  Government priority  Timely focus  Opportunity to pool resources  Critical to improve access  Messaging to business

How will BSSP change the way we support business?  Must be targeted  Must be accessible to all  Must be distinguishable as publicly funded offer  Seek collaboration  Intelligence -led

The product portfolio  Designed to address market failure  Avoid competing with private sector  Mini investment frameworks  Structured, comprehensive offer to business

Business Link: Improving access to publicly funded support • www.businesslink.gov.uk/northwest • Telephone support with business brokers via 0845 00 66 888 • Face to Face support for businesses in key sectors

Achievements – BLNW Continue to beat contractual targets Year One Results 1 Apr 07 – 31 Mar 08

Target

Actual

Variance

Year Two Results

Target

08/09 Forecast at week 50

Variance

Forecast

Businesses Engaged

85,400

86,774

+1,374

Businesses Engaged

88,300

90,250

+1,950

Individuals Assisted

10,600

10,210

-390

Individuals Assisted

12,000

10,750

-1,250

Total Engagement

96,000

96,984

+984

Total Engagement

100,300

101,000

+700

Intensive Assists

5,500

5,525

+25

Intensive Assists

7,500

7,750

+250

GVA Increase

£305m

£389m

+£84m

GVA Increase

£416m

£420m

+£4m

T2G Employers Engaged Level 2

6,965

9,342

+2,397

T2G Employers Engaged Level 2

3,704

4,200

+496

T2G hard To Reach

4,785

5,123

+338

T2G Hard To Reach

1,889

4,000

+2,111

T2G Referrals

26,062

28,451

+2,389

T2G Referrals

34,413

34,750

+337

YTD Business Link Performance Gtr Manchester Overview – Week 50 2008/09 Geography

YTD Penetration

Cheshire & Warrington

13086

Cumbria

10163

Greater Manchester

29664

Greater Merseyside

16134

Lancashire

20686

Outside North West Total:

Geography

8676 98409

Intensive Assists

Cheshire & Warrington Cumbria

1131 760

Greater Manchester

2177

Greater Merseyside

1735

Lancashire

1644

Outside North West Total:

128 7575

•

Enquiry Themes

Response To Economic Climate •

Access To Finance • Understand the processes involved in raising finance • Awareness of financial products on the market • Understand lenders/investors requirements • Make informed decisions on the appropriate kinds of finance • Become ‘investment ready’ increasing the chances of successfully raising funds

• Business Performance Index • Real Time Business Performance Information including Commercial Risk • Promote shared intelligence and appropriate policy interventions

• Innovation • Leadership & Management • Environment Connect • Business Health Checks

Access To Finance Week 50 2008/09 Number of Businesses with A2F Interactions

586

Number of A2F Clients Number of Finance Programmes Number of Finance Plans Total £ of finance required Average £ of finance required Jobs Created Jobs Safe Guarded No of Programmes Finance Sourced for

171 171 68 £70,645,830 £413,134 1,039 2,681 29

Amount of Finance Sourced

£11,879,000

Sub-Region Name

Clients

Cheshire & Warrington Cumbria Greater Manchester Greater Merseyside Lancashire County N/K Sum:

Percentage 18 6 56 23 64 4 171

11% 4% 33% 13% 37% 2% 100%

•

77% of all applications are from companies with less than 50 employees

•

56% of applications were for Working Capital

•

12% of applications were for Plant & Equipment

•

7% were for Finance Restructure, 6% were for new premises

•

The team will increase in size in 2009/10 from 8 to 15

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Martin Newsholme Office Managing Partner KPMG

Business Support – The Advisors Perspective 19 March 2009 Martin Newsholme

“The beating heart of any region’s economy is its business community”

© 2009 KPMG LLP, the UK member firm of KPMG International, a Swiss cooperative. All rights reserved. This document is confidential and its circulation and use are restricted. KPMG and the KPMG logo are registered trademarks of KPMG International, a Swiss cooperative.

About KPMG Global network of professional services providing audit, tax and advisory services KPMG Europe LLP established 1 October 2007 incorporating UK, German, Spanish and Swiss practices comprising 23,000 professionals − Meet changing needs of pan–European companies − Faster mobilisation of resources particularly in difficult times

KPMG in the UK − Over 10,000 staff and partners − 22 offices across the UK including Manchester, Preston and Liverpool

About KPMG in the North West Manchester Preston Liverpool 837 Professional & Support Staff in the North West Of the big four firms in the North West, KPMG has the largest share (38%) of the SME Marketplace We offer a range of services including audit and accountancy, taxation, compliance and advisory, corporate finance, restructuring, transaction services and forensic accounting

KPMG SME Clients

Confidence Slumps as Britain Prepares for a long and deep recession  87% of UK businesses think the economy will get worse before it

gets better  81% of businesses view prospects for the British economy as ‘bad’

or ‘very bad’  31% admitted that they have experienced financing difficulties over

the last 12 mths  51% of businesses experiencing tighter borrowing  Recent measures announced by the government to stimulate bank

lending have not yet cascaded down to businesses © 2009 KPMG LLP, the UK member firm of KPMG International, a Swiss cooperative. All rights reserved. This document is confidential and its circulation and use are restricted. KPMG and the KPMG logo are registered trademarks of KPMG International, a Swiss cooperative.

How are businesses responding? The brakes are firmly on corporate expenditure Cost cutting Better cash management  Employment costs under the spotlight

Recruitment Freezes Redundancy Programmes Flexibility

Rebuilding Business

 Unblock credit markets

 Cashflow assistance and support

 Maximise export opportunities

 Encourage entrepreneurs

What do entrepreneurs want

 Enthusiastic support and encouragement

 Cashflow assistance

 Less bureaucracy

 A level playing field

Simple Support, Better Business

 Simple, fast, effective communication

 Keep it relevant

 Minimise bureaucracy and form filling

 Quick access to funding

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Session 1 Financial Support for SME’s

Small Loans for Business Gary Pennington Finance Development Manager Economic Development

What ? • Small Loans for Business: Enterprise funding of between £3,000 and £50,000 to entrepreneurs from disadvantaged groups or communities. • Support is also offered alongside the loan with flexible repayment schedules. The loans are at a commercial rate of interest, and have a 5 year maximum term.

Why ? • Market imperfections place barriers to entrepreneurship in disadvantaged communities. • The Government’s Enterprise Strategy commitment is to provide access to finance for members of such communities. • Loans can provide a mechanism that actually provides a bridge to commercial lenders.

Who? • Entrepreneurs & SME’s particularly those from disadvantaged areas and communities excluded from the mainstream finance. • Businesses must be viable and unable to secure all their finance needs from mainstream sources. • The loan is for businesses aiming to start up, develop or expand, and is specifically targeted at women, under represented black and minority ethnic groups.

Case Study: NICKI B Children’s Clothing, Cumbria “It was really straightforward to apply for the small business loan. The loan has helped us to invest in expanding the company. We’ve got big plans over the next few years and the loan will definitely help us to achieve the growth we anticipate.“ NICKI B

Where ? • Anywhere in the Northwest for Entrepreneurs and SMEs, including Social Enterprise.

Provider ? • Northwest Development Agency through Community Development Finance Institutions.

Process / Next Steps • Contact CDFI Partners on 0871 384 1021 • Or apply online at www.nwda.co.uk/finance • Decisions will usually be made within 20 working days of application.

When ? • CDFI’s will accept applications 365 days a year via our website.

FAQs?  Q. Do I have to have been rejected by traditional lenders?  Q. Are loans available in Manchester?  Q. What if I have a poor credit history?  Q. If I have received partial funding from a High Street Bank can I apply?  Q. Why do I need a business plan?

Thank you for listening! We will update you on progress

www.nwda.co.uk/finance

Session 1 Financial Support for SME’s

Finance For Business: Northwest Venture Capital & Loan Fund Gary Pennington Finance Development Manager Economic Development

What ? • A €204 Venture Capital & Loan Fund • Loans of between £50,000 and £250,000. • Equity investment up to £2 million (twothirds public supplemented by a minimum one third private investment). • Mezzanine arrangements across the spectrum (a combination of debt and equity).

Why ? • A finance gap exists where viable businesses experience difficulties in accessing finance in the commercial market. • This gap occurs most acutely for businesses seeking finance up to £2 million.

Who? • Businesses looking to grow, whether it be a start-up, seeking seed money for proof of concept or more established business looking for equity finance to expand the scale of its operation. • Key Sectors will be targeted: Advanced Engineering & Materials; Biomedical; Business & Professional Services; Creative Digital Industries; Energy & Environmental Technologies and Food & Drink.

Where ? • SMEs based in the Northwest unable to raise finance on the commercial market but having viable business plans.

Provider ? • Northwest Development Agency through Northwest Venture Capital & Loan Fund

Process / Next Steps • Apply online at www.nwda.co.uk/finance • Decisions will usually be made within 20 working days for straight loan and within 40 working days for equity finance from a fully completed application being received. (both subject to satisfactory completion of due diligence).

FAQ • Q. When will this funding be available? • A. Transitional funding is available now, the €204m Fund is due to be launched early in 2009.

Thank you for listening! We will update you on progress

www.nwda.co.uk/finance

Session 1 Financial Support for SME’s

Finance for Business: Northwest Business Angels Gary Pennington Finance Development Manager Economic Development

What ? • Northwest Business Angels helps companies to become 'investment ready' by preparing them to meet with investors looking for young and dynamic businesses. • Arranges introductions to potential investors through real life ‘Dragons Den’ Investor Club meetings and on a dedicated website.

Why ? • In response to the lack of preparedness in SMEs widely reported by lenders and finance managers. • Over 25% of business fail to attract finance due to not being ‘investor ready’.

Who? • SMEs Seeking between £10k and £500k in return for an equity stake in their business. • The company should exhibit the ability for rapid growth. • Have an experienced management team, or the desire to build a successful team. • The business/proposition should be in a growing market with a clear strategy for long term expansion.

Where ?  Available to individuals starting up a Northwest based business, as well as SMEs already based in the Northwest.

Provider ? • Northwest Development Agency through Northwest Business Angels.

Case Study: Holiday Experts Ltd Lancashire £300,000 Investment in return for 50% Equity

“ We are grateful to Northwest Business Angels for the professional way that they helped us prepare our business case - but more than that, for the close personal relationship we developed with our adviser”. MIKE RUSSELL, MD Holiday Experts Ltd

Process / Next Steps • Apply online at www.nwda.co.uk/finance • NWBA Advisors will usually contact the entrepreneur within 4 working days of application.

When ? • NWBA will accept applications 365 days a year via our website.

FAQs? Q. How much does it cost? Q. Is the Northwest Business Angels service impartial and confidential? Q. How much money can I raise through Business Angels? Q. What do I have to do to obtain funding from investors?

Thank you for listening! We will update you on progress

www.nwda.co.uk/finance

Session 1 Financial Support for SME’s

Grant for Business Investment (GBI) Chris Greenhalgh Grants Strategy Manager

Who?  For Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and large companies in the eligible sectors and in certain locations across the North West investing a minimum of £100,000 on fixed assets.

Where?  Anywhere in the Northwest for SMEs  Large company support limited to identified areas of high deprivation

Provider?  Northwest Development Agency

Why ?  Grant for Business Investment seeks to address the current disparity in the economic performance of the English regions by promoting growth in disadvantaged areas and the wider region.  The support reflects the key role SMEs play in job creation, the generation of economic activity and the difficulties they face in the market place.

What?  Grant for Business Investment provides a minimum grant of £10,000 and above to businesses to support capital investment or job creation projects that help the company expand, rationalise, modernise or diversify.  Depending on the size of the company and the location of the project successful applicants can receive anything from 10% - 45% of a projects total eligible capital expenditure but support can vary depending on the need and quality of the project.

Example?  Electronics manufacturer in Wigan. The grant enabled the company to build more facilities and to bring in new more advanced technology. The company were able to invest in more efficient and advanced technology giving them the edge and making them more competitive. Grant award of £500,000 made in December 2006.  Case studies can be found on the Finance for Business website

Process / Next Steps  Contact Finance for Business team at the North West Development Agency  Apply online at www.nwda.co.uk/finance  Decisions will usually be made within 30 working days, from a fully completed application being received.

When?  No call dates for submitting applications.  NWDA will accept applications 365 days a year via our website.

FAQs?  My company employs 50 people in the NW and 300 in India aim I eligible?  I am a spending £20,000 on capital equipment am I eligible?  I am not creating or safeguarding any jobs am I eligible?  Can relocation of equipment costs be included?  I am able to secure bank finance but I would prefer a grant.

Find out more at:

www.nwda.co.uk/finance

Session 1 Financial Support for SME’s

Grant for Research & Development Chris Greenhalgh Grants Strategy Manager

Who?  For Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs)  With projects that contain technical & scientific risk

Where?  Any where in the Northwest

Provider?  Northwest Development Agency

Why ?  Technical risk or scientific uncertainty acts as a barrier to investment  Address market failure by public intervention  By offering a grant towards the costs of carrying out the research and development work, the grant will encourage businesses to carry out projects that they would not necessarily undertake without the grant  This will help lever in to these projects, finance from reluctant private investment sources to help fund the project. On completion, the grant will “ quality assure “ the project, which could make the applicant more investment ready

What?  Finance to assist SMEs to develop and exploit new ideas  Overcome technical barriers & scientific risk  Increase business involvement in R&D activity  Share the risk

What ? 

Research Projects – Up to £100,000 grant. 60% support for SMEs with up to 50 employee’s



Micro Projects – Up to £20,000 grant. 45% support for SMEs with up to 10 employee’s



Development projects – Up to £250,000 grant. 35% support for SMEs with up to 250 employee’s



Exceptional development projects – Up to £500,000 grant. 35% support for SMEs with up to 250 employee’s

Example?  Flowcrete based near Sandbach  Identified a potential innovation in a novel & unique seamless flooring system for the construction industry  Uncertainty around the technology prevented investment  Used Grant for R&D to partly mitigate the risk  Undertook a defined project of work  Brought the innovation to market  Which enabled the company to grow from a £1M to £42M turnover

Process / Next Steps  Eligibility check & apply online at www.nwda.co.uk/finance  Contact the Finance for Business team at the Northwest Development Agency for more details  Decisions will usually be made within 60 days, from a fully completed application being received

When?  There are no call dates for submitting your applications  None competitive

FAQs? 

Can we apply for funds to complete a partly completed project?



Can it support consortiums?



What if we do not own the IPR?



Can most of the project sub contracted?



Can we apply to the Carbon Trust as well?



Will the grant support content development for creative SMEs?



Can we also use Small Business Loans?



Can larger companies apply?

Find out more at:

www.nwda.co.uk/finance

Session 1 Financial Support for SME’s

Carbon Reduction Capital Purchase Awards

Part of: Improving Resource Efficiency Chris Greenhalgh Grants Strategy Manager

Who?  For Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in eligible sectors  For projects that can not be supported by the Carbon Trust Interest free loan scheme £50,000 – £200,000, are too small , have been rejected, have payback of longer than 4 years

Where?  Any where in the Northwest

Provider?  Northwest Development Agency  Supported by ENWORKS

Why ?  Mitigate future impact of climate change  Support 60% national Co2 savings by 2050  Support the Regional Climate change Action Plan objectives to 2020.  Support increased competitiveness – cost savings  Encourage the development environmental policies

What?  Product to encourage SMEs to reduce Co2 emissions  For capital purchases, including installation costs that can demonstrate Co2 savings  Has a grant rate of 50%  Maximum grant = de-minimis, 200,000 euro’s

Examples?  Typically for companies investing in new equipment or processes, but not IT equipment or mobile assets  Products that save energy waste or water  Low carbon energy supply  Up grading to higher specification manufacturing plant & equipment that will reduce resource consumption

Process / Next Steps  Contact Environment Business Support Programme for an onsite reviews  Eligibility check & apply online at www.nwda.co.uk/finance  Decisions will usually be made within 60 days, from a fully completed application being received.

When?  Open for submitting applications from 1st of March 09.  NWDA will accept applications 365 days a year via our website.

FAQs?  Why is this not available as part of GBI?  Can Enhanced Capital Allowances also be used?  Can SMEs also apply for Grant for Business investment?  Can the Carbon Trust Interest free loan also be used?  Can training costs also be included?  Can we also use Small Business Loans?  Can larger companies apply?

Thank you for listening! We will update you on progress

www.nwda.co.uk/finance

Questions & Answers

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Session 2

International Trade

Ian Parker Operational Team Leader & Trade Advisor UKTI

North W est International

In association with

Trade Team

UK TRADE & INVESTMENT North W est International

• • • • • •

UK Government network to help UK companies succeed overseas and overseas companies invest here 2000+ staff in Embassies, Consulates, High Commissions worldwide Tailored services to help companies develop international trade potential and access overseas markets Some 60+ trade staff involved, inc nearly 40 International Trade Advisers (ITAs) Delivery Team – Chamberlink on behalf of NW Chamber network – single contract, 3 years from April ‘07 ITAs – sector focused, 3 Teams, remote working, contactable via Chamberlink.

In association with

Trade Team

Fit with the Regional Public Sector North W est International

• UKTI lead NWDA international trade arm. NWDA Internationalisation Strategy and Action Plan key part of RES • NWDA funding of almost £6m to support and enhance UKTI’s resources in the region over 3 years ending 06/07 and £4.9m contracted to 09/10 • In addition to Chamberlink partnerships with key cluster and inward investment organisations e.g. Environlink, NWAA, Food Northwest In association with

Trade Team

Exporting for the SME Company North W est International

• Increases their client base and spreads their risk. • Provide new innovative ideas for UK market. • Needs management commitment. • Product must be suitable for Export markets. • Greater opportunity now due to current exchange rate movements. In association with

Trade Team

Products North W est International

• National products • Developing Your International Trade Potential • Accessing International Markets

In association with

Trade Team

UKTI Services for Developing Your International Trade Potential .

North W est International

• Passport to Export. • Export Communications Review. • Export Market research Scheme.

In association with

Trade Team

Passport to Export – What does it involve?

North W est International

• Over 1900 North West companies have taken advantage of programme. • Up to 6 days of adviser mentoring & 2 days of development training. • Free initial target market overview. • Up to £500 towards travel costs ( for nonsubsidised visits outside EU). • ‘Matched funding’ of up to £1500 to help with exporting marketing costs. • Networking with other exporting companies. In association with

Trade Team

Passport Company Commitment North W est International

• They must be an SME. • Not owned more than 25% by another company who are not an SME. • Do not export more than 10% proactively & 10% reactively. • Attend 2 days training. • Costs £150 + Vat. In association with

Trade Team

Export Market Research Scheme North W est International

• Supported by British Chambers of Commerce. • Quality Market Research up to £20K. • Comprehensive reports. • Professional Marketing Research mentoring. • Matched funding available. In association with

Trade Team

Export Communications Review North W est International

• For SMEs. • Reviews how the company presents itself to its overseas clients. • Looks at the whole marketing and promotion mix not just language. • Review costs £500+vat but has a £350 subsidy for companies. In association with

Trade Team

UKTI Services for Accessing International Markets .

North W est International

• Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS). • Market Visit Support. • Trade Show Access Programme (TAP). • Gateway to Global Growth (G3) In association with

Trade Team

Overseas Market Introduction Service North W est International

• • • • • • •

Available to all Companies. Company gains in depth market overview Market access to help company. ‘Warm contacts’ via commercial officers. Comprehensive market research reports. Subsidised: costs from £500 - £2000. Funding Finders Ltd - Lithuania

In association with

Trade Team

Market Visits Support Scheme North W est International

• SMEs. • Grant support for missions to priority markets • £ value varies according market. • India - £550, China - £750, Germany - £200. In association with

Trade Team

Tradeshow Access Programme North W est International

• SMEs. • Grant Support for exhibition participation. • 2 routes – • Main supported exhibitions £1000 £1800. • SOLO exhibitions - £1000. In association with

Trade Team

Gateway to Global Growth North W est International

• Innovative companies with 2-10 years’ experience • 12 month action plan • Tailored range of public (UKTI) and private sector support • Training under development • No UKTI funding In association with

Trade Team

North West services North W est International

• Most closely attributable to Accessing International Markets • Meet the Buyer events • Sector missions • Strategic Alliance & IPR support • Asia Pacific Team • North & South America specialists • UK visits by overseas Embassy commercial staff (BDVs) In association with

Trade Team

How to Contact UKTI in North West North W est International

North West International Trade Team • Email – info@uktinorthwest.co.uk • Main referral point – please copy in. • Tel: 0845 603 7053 www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk In association with

Trade Team

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Session 3 Skills & Redundancy Support

THE TRAIN TO GAIN SERVICE Matty Greenhalgh Skills Brokerage Service Business Link Northwest

The Train to Gain Skills Brokerage Service

• Overview of the service and how it works for Employers • Role of the Skills Brokers

• Current Offer of Funding Support

WHAT IS THE TRAIN TO GAIN SERVICE? The Train To Gain Skills Brokerage Service helps Employers get the training they need to succeed • The service offers impartial advice, identifies training needs and sources appropriate training and provision. • Identifies funding to support some training activities. • Training programmes are flexible, responsive and offered at a time and place to suit businesses. • Looks at sourcing best value solutions for employers.

ROLE OF THE SKILLS BROKERS 1: Identify the skills the business needs • Understanding business goals and associated current and future skill needs 2: Source the right training • Recommending types of training, selecting the right provider, choosing how and when training is delivered, choosing qualifications 3: Utilise any available funding • Train to Gain funding, other public funding and employer’s own investment 4: Review progress • Ongoing support – evaluating effectiveness

LEVELS OF SKILLS BROKERAGE Two core elements of the brokerage service: • Level 1 – Telephone and e-mail based service – Provides quick access to information about Training Providers – Referral on to a training provider or to Level 2 Service if more in depth analysis wanted by the Employer – Follow up service. • Level 2 – Face to face – More in depth diagnosis of the training needs of the business. – Source provision and any relevant funding – Follow up service.

BENEFITS OF THE BROKERAGE SERVICE

• Impartial • Supports the employer • Identifies training needs with the employer • Introduces suitable training providers • Identify any financial support that is available for the training – Train to Gain provides some support in the form of payment towards wage costs of employees when they are undertaking certain types of training, for Employers with less than 50 FTE employees

The Current Train to Gain Offer

• Funded Training Skills for Life – fully funded NVQ L2 – fully funded for all NVQ L3 – part funded (fully funded if low previous quals or aged 19 - 25) NVQ L4 / L5 – part funded (fully funded if aged 19 – 25)

• Leadership & Management Up to £1000 per business leader / owner / senior manager for companies employing 5 – 999 employees Due shortly Thin Qualifications – modules / units of NVQ’s – fully funded Skills Pledge + funding – up to £1000 per company

Skills Pledge • What is the Skills Pledge? A commitment by employers to develop all staff to have the skills they need to do the job, looking at L2 or equivalent as a minimum standard • What are the benefits to my organisation? Development of an up to date training plan and maximising available funding to support delivery of this plan Can be a benefit if tendering for contracts, shows employer commitment to development of staff at all levels. • Support available Support with developing the training plan and sourcing funding Potentially up to £1000 to pay for any training that cannot be funded through the core Train to Gain offer

Leadership & Management

• 3 year contract awarded August 2008 • Skills Broker support to identify the right training for your managers, can be employer choice of provider / deliverer • Funding cannot be used for mandatory/ statutory training • £500 fully funded and up to £500 match funded per manager up to a maximum of £1000 per person – max 7k per business • Funding for up to 7 managers in companies employing between 5 – 249 employees, 6 managers in companies employing 250 – 999 employees. • Cannot agree funding retrospectively, a personal development plan will be completed with each manager and this must be undertaken and agreed prior to commencing or paying for any training or development.

Contact Details • Telephone Support • 0845 006 6 888

• Email info@businesslinknw.co.uk

• Website www.businesslink.gov.uk/northwest

Session 3 Skills & Redundancy Support

Jobcentre Plus support during the economic downturn

Paula Parker

Overview

• • • •

Effect on the Global Economy Effect on the UK economy Effect on the North West Effect on the Sub Regions

Jobcentre Plus Core Services for those affected by Redundancy

• Jobcentre Plus support to notified redundancies • Jobcentre Plus or key partners offers of support services

Jobcentre Plus Rapid Response Service

 Jobcentre Plus Rapid Response Service funding increases  What does the Rapid Response Service include?  How is the Rapid Response Service accessed?

NW Case Studies

• Example of RRS support to store closures • Example of partnership approach to handling redundancy support • Example of Rapid Response Service in Action

Future Developments • •  

Local Employer Partnerships Public sector employment Employers’ “Golden Hellos” Specialist help for in looking for professional or executive jobs  Work focussed volunteering options  Money and support to help set up a business “The Government are determined to provide real help to people in these tough times. The message is simple, the longer a person is out of work the harder we will work for them.”

Questions & Answers

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Session 4 Starting & Growing a Business, Collaboration Networks

Janet Houghton A4e

Want to be your own boss and change your life? Want to be your own boss and change your life?

ISUS – Intensive Start Up Support  Brief overview of the programme  Introduce our role in Project Management

ISUS – Economic context and Eligibility • £13bn Output gap: 18% fewer businesses - gap of 91,000 businesses (Eng. ave.) • Need to Improve business formation, survival and growth rates • Need to improve business formation from:– Under-represented/under-performing groups e.g. women, BME, disabled, young people, 50+, offenders and ex offenders, some benefit claimants, Social Enterprise

– Deprived Communities (IMD) & Rural Areas Housing Market Renewal Area Urban Regeneration Area Rural Areas, Others

ISUS Client Journey – Service Specification

ISUS – Client Journey

ISUS – Role of the Lot 1 Organisation

       

Project Management of the overall project Q.A. performance of Lot 2 Panel Members and advisors Monitor and Evaluate overall project Aggregate and analyse expenditure, outputs and impact Submission of reports to funding bodies Communication with partners and stakeholders Manage Lot 2 Panel Members procured by the Agency Work with Business Link NW

ISUS - Working with Stakeholders

 Work with Business Link NW  Engagement: marketing; branding; referrals:  Ensure access to business support products:  Widening reach to target groups: avoiding duplication:

 Work with Local Authorities     

Support mini tender to achieve procurement requirements Ensure compliance of the Service Specification in contracts Share Performance Management Tools Train and develop staff to use CRM, Audit evidence Share communications, dissemination and MI

ISUS - Working with Stakeholders

 Work with Panel Members     

Contract management, induction and training Risk Assessment, Audit and Quality Assurance Capacity Building and Developing Advisors Improving services and widening reach into target groups Managing Brand and making effective links to business support services, Business Link, Local Authorities, outreach organisations

 NWDA  Report directly on all aspects of the programme  Develop Communications Strategy for the region  Continuously improve and widen ISUS across the region

ISUS Lot 1 Project Management Contact Janet Houghton A4e Regional Enterprise Director Email: janethoughton@A4e.co.uk Tel: 01257 482 541 Mobile 07921 581 901

Session 4 Starting & Growing a Business, Collaboration Networks

Brian Dormand Winning Pitch

High Growth Programme

supported by

KEY QUESTIONS

• Who is it aimed at?

Gazelles!

• What’s in it for me?

Sustainable, profitable, growth

• How do we join?

Fast and simple

• What’s the catch?

There isn’t one!

AND IT IS FULLY FUNDED!

WHO IS IT FOR?

Gazelles!

Gazelles High Growth companies Want it (growth wish) Capable of it (growth potential) Need help to achieve it Pre natal to mature adult Start or pre-start - able to achieve £500,000 sales p.a. in under 3 years - definitely not lifestyle companies! • Established SMEs - already achieving £500,000 p.a. sales - minimum of 20% + p.a. sustainable growth - under £10 million turnover • • • • • •

QUIZ: SPOT THE GAZELLE! Gazelles are mostly: True • High Tech/R & D based • Young businesses • In High Growth sectors • University Spin Outs • In Science Parks or Incubators • Funded by Venture Capital • Rich in IP • Create more jobs than the economy as a whole!

False

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME? • Less pain, more gain – sustainable, profitable, growth • Customised 1-2-1 coaching support - build capability - transfer skills and knowledge • Someone who has “been here, done that…” • Help you to - develop a robust game plan - make it happen KEEP THE WHEELS ON THE WAGON!

ICING ON THE CAKE? • Coaching - 3 days for pre start - 5 days for a start - 10 days for established SME • Supplemented by - workshops - experience sharing networks - on-line materials

ALL FULLY FUNDED!

HOW DO WE GET ON BOARD? • Initial Enquiry form via www.highgrowthprogramme.co.uk • Telephone discussion with our Sub Regional Manager - confirm eligibility - arrange to meet • Recruitment visit • Sign up – or signpost (if not yet suitable)

FAST AND SIMPLE!

SO WHAT’S THE CATCH? • Limited places?

Yes but 1,500 still to fill!

• Timed out?

Yes but not until August 2011

• Wrong postcode?

Not if you are North West based

• Too remote?

No – people on the ground in all five sub regions AND IT IS FULLY FUNDED!

Contacts Programme Director Brian Dormand 07809 626057 0161 918 6785 b.dormand@winning-pitch.co.uk

www.highgrowthprogramme.co.uk Regions Cheshire

Lesley Brush

07815 207609

Merseyside

Mike Dean

07765 086436

Manchester

Nick Roach

07720 056860

Lancashire

Bill Griffiths

07966 171126

Cumbria

Norman Aubrey Danny Connaughton

07747 757121 07747 757126

Session 4 Starting & Growing a Business, Collaboration Networks

Business Collaboration Networks NWDA Cluster Development Programme 19th & 26th March 2009

Bill Greenhalgh Strategy Manager - Clusters

Business Collaboration Networks •

Funding to intermediaries who operate networks

•

Collaboration enables businesses to access new opportunities

•

Networks offer a range of support including: – – – – – – – – –

• •

Market exploitation Supply chain development Commercial exploitation of processes, technologies & products Sharing of best practice Marketing & distribution channels Image Environmental impact & sustainability Encouraging start-ups and spin-outs Skills needs and challenges

Discussion forums Interlinking with similar or complimentary networks in Europe

Rationale •

Strategic programme to increase Competitiveness

•

Collaboration in key regional sectors enables exploitation of growth opportunities

•

Participants pursue opportunities they cannot exploit alone, with positive impacts

•

Overcome barriers facing businesses – – – –

•

Unaware of benefits of collaboration Problems internalising benefits Equitable division of benefits between partners Timeliness

Benefits to public sector – – – – –

Build and grow industries by collaboration Increase tacit knowledge Cost effective Inform public policy Ensure investment programmes are demand led

Eligibility • •

Intermediaries with proven track record Network participants primarily SMEs (<250 employees, turnover <€50m or balance sheet <€43m)

•

Businesses must: – Be in a priority sector identified in the regional or local economic strategy – Or be looking to diversify into these sectors – Be able to address opportunities by collaboration – Be willing and able to collaborate – But will still compete The exact composition of the network will depend upon the sector(s) it is representing

NWDA Cluster Development Programme •

Supports the RES priority sectors (TA8)

•

Delivered through Regional Cluster Organisations

•

Linked to other NWDA programmes, plus UKTI

•

Based on modern theories of cluster development (Prof. Michael Porter)

•

UK Cluster Strategy (BERR)

•

Cluster development successfully used in many other regions globally

•

Trans-national clusters collaboration is a European Commission priority

What is a Cluster? A group of industries and organisations that are linked together in buying and selling relationships, or who share the same infrastructure, customers or skills base and whose linkages enhance competitive advantage - Prof. Michael Porter

What does a Cluster look like?

Related & Supporting Industries

Upgrading & Research Colleges innovative Institutes Training institutions Providers Universities Core of Cluster

Infrastructure & Services Packaging

Markets

Transport Market Logistics intelligence

Industry bodies

Cogent SI

Specialist Marketing Consultants /Design

NWDA Cluster Development Programme Sector Biomedical Energy & Environmental Technologies Advanced Engineering & Materials Chemicals Aerospace Automotive Advanced Flexible Materials Food & Drink Digital & Creative Industries Financial & Professional Services

Cluster Organisation BioNoW Envirolink NW

Chemicals Northwest North West Aerospace Alliance Northwest Automotive Alliance NWTexNet Food Northwest Northwest Vision & Media Pro Manchester Professionaliverpool Call Northwest

Case Study – Energy & Environmental Technologies •

Environmental research groups database includes: – Joule Centre (energy) – Lancaster Environmental Centre – Dalton Centre (nuclear energy)

•

Supply Chain Directories

•

Host UKTI International Trade Manager

•

Sub-sector support teams

•

Networking events, eg Sustainability mentoring, recycled product

•

On-line networks

•

Library of Case studies

•

Envirolink & Food NW collaboration on food waste

design, new waste management facilities & nuclear power facilities

Further Information Cluster Organisation

Website

BioNoW EnvirolinkNW

www.bionow.co.uk www.envirolinknorthwest.co.uk

Chemicals Northwest North West Aerospace Alliance Northwest Automotive Alliance NWTexNet

www.chemicalsnorthwest.org.uk www.aerospace.co.uk www.nwautoalliance.com www.nwtexnet.com

Food Northwest

www.foodnw.co.uk

Northwest Vision & Media Pro Manchester Professionaliverpool Call Northwest

www.northwestvision.co.uk www.pro-manchester.co.uk www.professionaliverpool.com www.callnorthwest.org.uk

Application Process •

Obtain information from Business Link NW

•

Contact relevant Regional Cluster Organisation

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Attend networking events

•

Actively participate

•

Clusters are inclusive

•

Clusters encourage collaboration

•

and Clusters encourage rivalry

Business Collaboration Networks NWDA Cluster Development Programme 19th & 26th March 2009

Bill Greenhalgh Strategy Manager – Clusters Tel: +44 (0)1925 400348 eMail: Bill.Greenhalgh@nwda.co.uk Northwest Regional Development Agency Renaissance House, PO Box 37, Centre Park, Warrington, WA1 1XB, UK Web site: www.nwda.co.uk

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Session 5

Business Efficiency

Manufacturing Advisory Service Tony Ward Skills and Productivity Advisor The Manufacturing Institute

The Manufacturing Institute

The Manufacturing Institute Independent charity founded by NW manufacturers and universities - founded in 1994 High impact skills building and productivity improvement programmes and a commitment to improve the image of manufacturing NWDA-appointed Regional Centre for Manufacturing Excellence Since 2002 have delivered the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) in the north west

Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) Hands-on advice & assistance from experts in a wide range of manufacturing disciplines Government-backed Delivered by experienced manufacturers

What is MAS? Now in 6th year – proven track record of bottom-line results Delivered on a regional basis Delivered by dynamic, approachable and passionate specialists – with ‘real life’ shopfloor experience

MAS in the North West Delivered by The Manufacturing Institute Tailored to meet the priorities and needs of manufacturers in the region 3000+ on-site reviews and 1200+ consultancy projects in NW since 2002 Customer feedback confirm £667m+ bottomline benefits 12 strong in-house team with experience in Toyota, Rolls Royce, Black & Decker, GSK, ICL, British Gypsum, …

MAS NW - What can I get? Free, impartial manufacturing advice including: Free manufacturing review every 12 months Focus on processes / supply chain / innovation / lean office / culture change / energy Written report detailing recommendations and proposed action plan 50% subsidy for SMEs towards implementation of improvement projects MAS practitioners available to mentor, facilitate and train

MAS NW – What can I get? Free breakfast networking events Free “light touch” environmental audit for SMEs Subsidised full environmental audits for SMEs Low cost factory visits

“Hands-on” help that really works!

Brainboxes – Process Improvement Began working with MAS in 2002 Mapping out processes Eliminating waste Driving up productivity

Brainboxes – Process Improvement Supporting the reduction of set-up and changeover times on a key production line Ensuring the swift and cost effective manufacture of a wide range of products – in any volume – as and when the customer needs them

Brainboxes - Benefits Changeover/set-up times improved by 30 % Re-work reduced by improving 'right first time' More productive - volumes up by 75% Stocktaking days were reduced from 12 person days to 5.

The Manufacturing Institute Dedicated to improving and developing the skills from shopfloor to boardroom! Funding available (Train to Gain) for: NVQs – Business Improvement Techniques (BIT) (level 2&3) Team Leader Development, Lean Leadership, Lean Manufacturing, Diploma and MSc Generous subsidies available for north west based manufacturing companies on all programmes

Manufacturing Advisory Service

Take advantage of what’s available to you! Thank you for listening

Session 5

Business Efficiency

ENWORKS

Todd Holden

Improving Your Resource Efficiency We deliver support in: Corporate Responsibility and Resource Efficiency to businesses of all sizes from all sectors. • Information Services

• Audits and Reviews

• Telephone Helpline

• Opportunity Identification

• Seminars and Training

• On-Site Support

• Legal Compliance

• Opportunity Implementation

• Networking

• Online Efficiency Toolkit

• Risk Management

• Links to other support

• Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation

Why is the product offered? Annual economic outcomes: • £53m cost savings (£20m achieved, £33m in the pipeline) • £40m investment in environmental technologies (£11m achieved)

Annual environmental outcomes: • 180k tonnes CO2 not emitted (41k achieved, 139k in the pipeline) • 2.7m m3 Water saved (800k achieved, 1.9m pipeline) • 2.9m tonnes Materials not used (2.4m achieved, 500k pipeline) • 94k tonnes of Waste diverted from Landfill (34k achieved, 60k pipeline) • Substitutions: • 4.7m kWh electricity (2.5m achieved) • 1.3m litres diesel/petrol (26,500 achieved) • 15,200 tonnes materials (1,300 achieved)

Why is the product offered? Averages: • 8% cost savings on energy • 2% cost savings on materials • 13% cost savings on water • 50% cost savings on waste • £350 per employee • £9,500 per achieved improvement • £21,000 per business with achieved improvements Available to All North West Businesses

Delivery and Access • Groundwork Trusts • Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency • 44 names consultants • 7 private sector consultancies

Access through Business Link Environment Connect 0845 00 66 888

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Questions & Answers

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009

Session 6

Innovation

Knowledge to Innovate

The Knowledge to Innovate Programme

Charlie Rea

The K2i Programme  A Regional Innovation programme funded by the NWDA  Operating from April 2007 to March 2010  Building Innovation Capacity in over 400 companies We focus on creating additional value in a business through the introduction of something new

Product Innovation Advice and Guidance Intensive Assistance to Innovate: – – – – – – –

Products and services Business processes Business model Company structure Commercialisation of products/services Cultural change Collaborative relationships

Product Innovation Advice and Guidance Mentoring from Innovation Experts Innovation Workshops – Bespoke in-company and – Topic led for groups of companies

Between two and eight days FREE support

Product Rationale Help reduce the Productivity Gap by:  Improving the levels of Innovation and competitiveness in Northwest SMEs  Bringing Innovation to market in a reduced timeframe  Building company Innovation capacity and knowledge.

Eligibility  Mid Tier Northwest SMEs (20+ employees) where innovation can add value  RES Priority Sectors Smaller companies (10+ employees) with the capacity and desire to innovate may also be considered

Available From: Primary Access Route – Business Link Northwest Secondary Channel - K2i Team Tel: Email: Web:

08456 209940 info@k2i.org.uk www.k2i.org.uk

Provider

WM Enterprise

K2i

C-Tech Innovation

Case Studies How K2i is building innovation capacity in companies to add real value to the Northwest economy

Application Process Company Enquiry BLNW or K2i Registration Meeting Action Plan Delivery

Knowledge Transfer Charlie Rea, Knowledge to Innovate

Innovation Vouchers •

New 2 year £4.1m project funded by NWDA & ERDF

•

Introduced to encourage businesses to access the knowledge base and increase innovation activity.

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Open to all SMEs in the Northwest including social enterprise and not for profit organisations

•

Open to all sectors but priority will be given to – Food & Drink, – Professional & Business Services – Creative & Digital Industries

•

1000 £3,000 vouchers available over 2 years, business needs to pay VAT element (£450)

•

100 £7,000 vouchers will be available Dec 09 & Apr 10 which the business will need to match with £3,000 plus VAT

Progress to Date •

1st round of 100 vouchers resulted in – 153 applications, of which 128 were eligible – 100 vouchers issued

•

2nd round of 200 vouchers resulted in – 263 which included 2 consortium applications – 244 eligible – 200 vouchers issued

•

1st round matching with knowledge providers has now taken place and 2nd round currently on going

•

Range of projects and issues from strategic market research to prototype design and research

•

Those unsuccessful through oversubscription will be able to resubmit their application in the next round

How to Access • Joint Business Link/ NWDA offering • Apply on-line at :-www.nwdabusinessfinance.co.uk/innovationvouchers • Case Study - community projects artist Tracy Cartledge & mosaic making – – – –

Applied for Voucher in round 1 Voucher helped get ‘mosaic kit’ products to market Delivered mosaic kits into the shops within 6 weeks “It's proved a brilliantly quick way to innovate new products & cost my business nothing" states Tracy

Mosaic Kits

Future Rounds • April 2009 - 1 May 2009

- 200 vouchers

• 3 August 2009 - 28 August 2009 - 200 vouchers • 7 December 2009 - 4 January 2010 - 200 x £3,000 vouchers + 50 x £7,000 vouchers

• 5 April 2010 - 30 April 2010- 200 x £3,000 vouchers + 50 x £7,000 vouchers

• 2 August 2010 - 27 August 2010 - 200 vouchers

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships • Find an innovative solution to help business grow • Increase competitive advantage • Access recently qualified people to spearhead new projects • Access experts who can help take business forward

Who can take part? • KTP has worked with over 3,000 organisations. • From manufacturing to design, sustainability to marketing; • any business sector, including 'not for profit' and public sector organisations such as the NHS, can take part. • Businesses of all sizes can take part too.

What will it cost? •

A KTP is part-funded by a Government grant.

•

A small to medium sized enterprise (SME) would be expected to contribute about a third of the costs involved in the project.

•

The average annual contribution to the project for an SME would be from just over £20,000.

•

A large company would be expected to contribute 50%

•

Currently, average annual project costs are around £60,000

How to Apply • National Product • Signposted by Business Link • Apply on KTP website – www.ktponline.org.uk • Access through local University or Further Education College KTP office

• Many Case Studies can be found on national website

The Partnership • One to three years in length • 3-way partnership between – Business –Academia-Associate

• Associate is employed by the academic institution (HE or FE) • Strategically significant project for the business • Associate completes Level 4 Diploma in Management

Short-KTP Pilot • Pilot project in partnership with Cumbria University • 10-40 weeks in duration • Tactical project for business • Could be a precursor for a full KTP • 30-50% match by company (dependant on size) • First 2 partnerships underway

Questions & Answers

Support for Northwest Business 19th March 2009