£4.5M boost empowering Greater Manchester businesses with essential skills support

Businesses across Greater Manchester can now access free, tailored skills development support to help address workforce challenges, boost productivity, and invest in staff training.

The £4.5 million expansion, funded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority allows GM Business Growth Hub to offer businesses access to specialist training in essential workplace skills.

GM Business Growth Hub is expanding its services to offer more flexible workforce development in response to employer demand, so they can access training that enhances core workplace skills, develops leadership capability, and provides sector-specific training.

A team of dedicated Skills Coaches will provide one-to-one guidance, helping businesses and employees identify skills gaps and access the right training opportunities. The Growth Hub is also working with Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and a network of employers to ensure training meets the needs of local businesses.

Janine Smith, Director at GM Business Growth Hub, said: 

“This enhanced offer is more than just upskilling, it’s about creating a brighter, stronger economy full of people who are proud of what they do. Every person in Greater Manchester deserves to feel supported and celebrated in their work, this investment will have a big impact in making that happen.”

Clive Memmott OBE, Chief Executive, Greater Manchester Chamber, said: “The economic growth rate of Greater Manchester is more significant than many other parts of the UK, skills development and investment is critical to continue this growth and keep Greater Manchester at the forefront.

The fully funded support is available to all who meet the eligibility criteria, live and work in Greater Manchester, including those who work on a voluntary basis.

To find out more, visit https://www.businessgrowthhub.com/programmes/skills-development/. 

This investment will build on a decade of business support delivered by GM Business Growth Hub, on behalf of the GMCA. Since 2011, the Hub has engaged with more than 90,000 businesses and individuals wishing to start a business, created over 14,000 jobs, and safeguarded a further 12,000.