Posted: Friday, 11th May 2012
MMU’s Centre for Enterprise is tackling the recession head on by working with some of the most exciting growth businesses in the North West to boost the local economy.
The ‘Alumni Business Circle’, which is the first in the UK to bring together graduates of leadership programmes, will connect 150 of the region’s best small businesses to jump start new opportunities, new learning and new partnerships.
The SMEs will gain access to business expertise and support in addressing specific issues from the university and other businesses as well as opportunities for inter-trading and collaboration.
Professor of Entrepreneurship Lynn Martin says, “It’s all about getting these people in the same room together and having conversations about business in a safe and supportive environment.
Vital role
“Universities can play a vital role in facilitating this sort of grassroots approach to tackling the recession.
“Initiatives like the Alumni Business Circle could make a huge difference to our small business economy, now more than ever.
“We pride ourselves on the relationships we have developed with small business leaders over the years and this is a thrilling opportunity to really make something of our combined knowledge and expertise”.
Membership of the Alumni Business Circle is open to any business that has participated in a Centre for Enterprise programme.
Notes to editors:
Since it was ofrmed in 2001, the Centre for Enterprise at MMU Business School has worked with almost 1,000 business people, improving their leadership, innovation and entrepreneurial skills.