Registration is now open for a new, fully-funded leadership programme, designed to help SMEs build resilience, tackle the challenges faced during and after Covid-19, and drive future productivity and growth.

Supported by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, The Small Business Leadership Programme (SBLP) is a free, 10-week training programme for senior leaders in organisations with 5–249 employees.

A range of small business experts – including entrepreneurs, business leaders and academics from Newcastle Business School at Northumbria University – will deliver the online programme in the North East and Cumbria, with the first cohort starting next month (October 2020).

Covering a range of practical topics, including operational and finance management, innovation, strategic leadership and employee engagement, the SBLP will provide participants with an online learning community and skills that can be directly applied to their organisations.

With eight, 90-minute webinars, alongside independent learning, the programme is specifically designed to support and fit in with day-to-day business.  As part of a small cohort of SME owners and senior managers from the region, those taking part will also build new networks and share experiences with their peers.

To find out more about the SBLP, eligibility and to register interest, visit the Small Business Charter website at https://smallbusinesscharter.org/small-business-leadership-programme/