Innovation and Growth teams

In July 2009, SEEDA launched a new programme of support for innovative and high growth companies. South East Business Innovation and Growth Teams (IGTs) have been set up across the region to provide tailored coaching, mentoring and networking opportunities to businesses of all sizes. IGT support has been designed to provide support as widely as possible. It can be accessed by any businesses with high growth potential irrespective of size, from start-ups to major corporations and within all industries. Experienced business professionals will provide the advice and tailor it to the needs of each business to help maximise positive outcomes.

£20 million is being invested in IGTs, which will be further supplemented by private sector investment. The Innovation and Growth Teams are focusing on five areas of support which are part of the 'Solutions for Business' initiative funded by Government

• starting a high growth business;
• innovation advice and guidance;
• coaching for high growth;
• understanding finance for business; and
• business collaboration networks.

Innovation and Growth Teams, which are backed by local economic partnerships, universities and Business Link, are being introduced in two phases. The first phase involves working with businesses in West Surrey and North East Hants, Solent, Thames Valley, and Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes. Enterprise Hubs will continue to operate in Kent and Medway, East Surrey and West Sussex, Oxfordshire, East Sussex and Brighton and Hove until the introduction of Innovation and Growth Teams at the end of 2009.

Pam Alexander, SEEDA Chief Executive, said: "SEEDA’s overall objective is to drive economic growth within the South East. South East Business Innovation and Growth Teams provide a new approach to ensure that businesses can access the expertise they need now. It will build on the successes of the Enterprise Hub Network, Innovation Advisory Service and High Growth Coaching and is a major boost for innovative and high growth businesses in the region."

For more information, please visit the Innovation and Growth teams website.

For more information please contact our press office

Tel: 01483 470155