UWTSD and Antur Cymru Launch "Prepare to Grow" Business Development Programme for Small Businesses in Powys
The Enterprise Team at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), with the support of the Civic Engagement Team, is thrilled to announce the launch of “Prepare to Grow,” an innovative business development programme designed to support the growth of small businesses in Powys.
This comprehensive initiative is being offered in collaboration with Antur Cymru, a social enterprise dedicated to community regeneration, and is funded through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF).
The “Prepare to Grow” programme aims to provide tailored guidance and resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Powys region who wish to take their ventures to the next level. By participating, businesses will be equipped with the strategic tools and personalised mentorship necessary to develop and implement an effective growth plan aligned with their unique missions and values.
The recent launch event kicked off a series of workshops attended by a range of businesses who highlighted the value of the event, emphasising the possibilities for networking, collaboration, and access to professionals and peer-to-peer advice.
Rebecca Jones, Project Manager from the UWTSD Enterprise Team says: “The University is passionately committed to fostering entrepreneurship, nurturing local talent, and supporting the growth of our regional business community.
“Through the ‘Prepare to Grow’ programme, we aim to empower small businesses in Powys with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to overcome barriers, capitalise on opportunities, and achieve long-term, sustainable success.”
The multifaceted programme will offer participants a comprehensive suite of resources and support, including:
- A proprietary business evaluation toolkit to assess current operations, identify areas for improvement, and outline strategic growth opportunities.
- A series of masterclasses and workshops led by industry experts, covering crucial topics such as market analysis, financial management, operational efficiency, and leadership development.
- Facilitated peer-to-peer learning groups, fostering collaboration, idea exchange, and mutual encouragement among like-minded business owners.
- Access to cutting-edge research, data, and market insights to inform data-driven decision-making.
- One-on-one advisory support from seasoned business mentors, providing personalised guidance throughout the implementation of growth strategies.
Bronwen Raine, Managing Director of Antur Cymru Enterprise said: “As an organisation that has worked for many years to support businesses across Powys, we are very excited to collaborate with UWTSD to bring this new approach to supporting businesses to achieve sustainable growth. I am especially pleased that Mid Wales is the first Welsh region where this model, a combination of academic and practical hands-on experience, is being launched.”
Funded by the UK government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, the “Prepare to Grow” programme exemplifies the collective commitment of UWTSD, Antur Cymru, and the UK Government to promote sustainable economic growth, foster local pride, and cultivate a stronger social fabric through community-driven initiatives.
“I would urge any small business in Powys that is looking to expand to take advantage of the expert support that is available through this scheme,” said Cllr David Selby, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys and Chair of the Powys SPF Local Partnership Board. “Getting the right help at the right time can make a huge difference to the success of your enterprise!”
Registration for the “Prepare to Grow” programme is now open and each workshop can be found on our Eventbrite here . Small business owners in Powys interested in seizing this exceptional opportunity are encouraged to contact prepare-to-grow@uwtsd.ac.uk for more details and to secure their spot. The workshops will start in July.
The Powys SPF Local Partnership Board is responsible for deciding how the just over £26 million in SPF money allocated to Powys for 2022-25, by the UK Government as part of its Levelling Up programme, should be spent.
The Powys SPF Local Partnership Board is supported by Powys County Council’s Economic Development and Regeneration Team.
About UWTSD Enterprise Team The UWTSD Enterprise Team is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation within the university and the wider community. By providing support, resources, and opportunities for collaboration, the team aims to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit and contribute to the economic development of the region.
About Antur Cymru Antur Cymru is a social enterprise owned by shareholders in the community. As a social enterprise, shareholders do not profit individually but have agreed that any surpluses should be reinvested in the company to maintain high standards and in projects that promote prosperity in the area. Antur Cymru’s core objectives include fostering and encouraging the establishment of businesses and organisations, sharing information and advice with businesses and enterprises, commissioning research surveys and studies, and collaborating with societies or organisations that support their aims. Their efforts are geared towards meeting the needs of businesses and communities they serve.
Further Information
Eleri Beynon
Head of Corporate Communications and PR
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: e.beynon@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07968 249335