Enterprise nation’s Emma Jones runs through the support available to SMEs
SMALL businesses have competitive advantage in developing new products and embracing technology at speed. A number of support programmes – delivered by government and large corporates – offer space, connections, funds and advice on how to integrate technologies into the business, or to get your own innovations to market.
Growth Vouchers – access up to £2,000 in matched funding from government to get advice on “making the most of digital technologies” in your business. Find advisers who are experts in topics from mobile apps to CRM on the Enterprise Nation marketplace; the authorised site to find advisers with whom to spend a voucher. enterprisenation.com/marketplace
Technology Strategy Board – source funds and connections from “the UK’s Innovation Agency”, which supports companies in the digital, ICT, healthcare and other sectors to accelerate product development. innovateuk.org
Growth Accelerator – businesses with up to four employees pay £600 to enrol, and receive a coach and advice to take the business to its next level. A number of coaches are former tech entrepreneurs so can offer guidance from a place of knowledge. growthaccelerator.com
Large corporates are also starting accelerators and competitions to accelerate new technologies and share their own.
IDEA London – backed by Cisco and DC Thompson, this space incubates digital and new media firms, offering space, support, access to technology, and a powerful channel to market. idea-london.co.uk
Truestart – focused on retail businesses and with support from Accenture and Land Securities, this is the space to test your technology and benefit from the founding team’s years of experience and market insight. truestart.co.uk
KPMG Digital Innovation Network – do you have technologies that will be of interest to the KPMG client base? This is the network for you. The first deal was announced in January with apps developer Chelsea Apps Factory, which is now benefiting from introductions to an enviable client base that wants the technology they have to offer.
Emma Jones, Enterprise Nation