A report to Lancashire County Council's Cabinet has outlined some of the key achievements from Boost's successful programme. Boost helps Lancashire business owners and leaders to find the right support for their business.
They also deliver a number of funded programmes for start-up, established and fast-growing businesses. During the Covid-19 lockdown, Boost also reconfigured its support to help businesses to deal with the effects of the pandemic. From January 2019 to the end of June 2020, more than 2,770 businesses accessed Boost's services and support for the first time, which involved a diverse group of businesses, not just repeat users.
Boost helped to support an increase in employment numbers in 567 supported enterprises. Significant support of 12 hours or more was given to over 500 businesses. More than 700 enterprises received information, diagnostic and brokerage support. There were 1,225 referrals to wider business support agencies, reflecting Boost's central role as a Growth Hub.
And it's not just about existing business. Boost helped 176 potential entrepreneurs to be enterprise ready, and 127 new enterprises were supported. One of 38 Growth Hubs in the UK, Boost is led by Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership. It includes funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
County Councillor Aidy Riggott, Cabinet member for economic development and growth, said: "Thousands of businesses have seen the benefit of getting in contact with Boost by helping them to identify the measures they need to develop and grow even further.
"We've seen Boost's work grow and develop since it was created, and they've also continued to adapt their offer to meet the changing needs of business.
"For example, during the early stage of the Covid pandemic last year, they launched the #AskForHelp campaign to support our business community through the Covid-19 pandemic. "Boost's expert business support and guidance helps you to understand and find the right support for your business, whether you are a start-up or looking to take your business to the next level. Get in contact and see how Boost can support your growth ambitions."
The #AskForHelp campaign, which Boost launched on day one of the Covid lockdown attracted more than 5,000 Lancashire businesses. The aim of the campaign is to help businesses to manage the effects of the Covid pandemic on areas of business including finances, cash flow, staff, remote working, supply chain issues and diversifying into new markets.
If you are based in Lancashire and want to find the right support for your business, contact our experienced advisers by completing our quick form or call: 0800 488 0057.
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