Last chance for Wigan digital and creative businesses to get Covid-19 assistance

Businesses are facing huge challenges with the pandemic

The region-wide initiative helps businesses to define or refine their business plans, plot a clear route to their objectives, and gain greater knowledge of core business fundamentals.

Recognising the new challenges businesses face with the coronavirus, the programme has now revised its content to help companies stabilise, adapt and grow in a world where the economic outlook has suddenly and dramatically changed.

In keeping with Government guidelines on social distancing, the structure has also been re-modelled to offer support via virtual delivery methods.

Digital, creative and tech leaders will give expert advice along with advisors from the GC Business Growth Hub, which receives money from the European Regional Development Fund.

There will also be talks from people with experience of guiding firms through economic crises such as the dot.com bubble bursting and the 2008 international financial crash.

Sarah Novotny, digital creative and tech sector lead at GC Business Growth Hub, said: “Creative and digital businesses are facing a number of challenges during this crisis, some of which are shared by all industries and some which are particular to this sector.

"This makes it very timely that they can sign up to be part of the new Greater Connected cohort, which has already helped more than 170 local businesses.

“We know that these businesses need tailored support to help them come through the coronavirus crisis intact and ready to grow again, so our advisors are ready to help and offer advice. There has never been a more important time to be a part of the wider Greater Connected network, learning from other businesses with similar experiences and barriers to overcome.

“While we would usually be conducting these sessions face-to-face, thankfully technology means we can stay connected to keep offering this opportunity for businesses to grow together and help each other through this difficult time. We urge these businesses to apply as soon as possible, to get the right kind of support that’s most relevant to them.”

Businesses can apply at https://gc.businessgrowthhub.com.