In the dynamic landscape of County Durham’s commercial environment, businesses encounter a constantly shifting array of challenges and opportunities.

Recognising the need for comprehensive support, Durham Business Growth has emerged as a driving force, offering a transformative platform providing tailored support, unlocking potential and fostering sustainable growth.

The Durham Business Growth Programme, funded by Durham County Council with a budget of £8.16m, brings together the expertise of Business Durham, RTC North and UMi in a collaborative effort which provides a simplified and accessible platform for businesses.

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities, the programme’s primary objective is to strengthen the county’s economy. It is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, with a strategic emphasis on those operating in growing sectors like the green economy, decarbonisation, space and satellites, fintech and digital, advanced material electronics, life sciences, and the creative and cultural sectors.

Business Durham: A trusted guide for business success

As the lead partner in Durham Business Growth, Business Durham, the business support service for Durham County Council, is spearheading the initiative.

With a mission to deliver more and better jobs while fostering a strong competitive economy, Business Durham is a knowledgeable and trusted guide for businesses seeking funding, advice and networks to thrive in the county.

The Business Durham team, including five dedicated Business Engagement Officers, actively engages with businesses, providing localised support and fostering connections vital for growth. These officers act as go-to contacts for businesses throughout their engagement with the Durham Business Growth Programme. Serving as trusted advisors they support businesses in uncovering their growth potential, aligning interventions with action plans and offering continuous support.

Specialised productivity and growth support with RTC North

RTC North stands at the forefront of business support and innovation, bringing a wealth of expertise to the initiative. Through its productivity and growth support, businesses can access a spectrum of services ranging from one-on-one consultations to seminars and workshops. The dedicated team of Productivity & Growth Advisors works closely with Durham businesses, focusing on enhancing specific areas to boost productivity and increase the likelihood of achieving growth ambitions.

With a commitment to excellence, RTC North plays a pivotal role in connecting businesses with the right resources, ensuring they overcome challenges and seize opportunities in an ever-evolving marketplace. Their involvement in the Durham Business Growth programme is a testament to their dedication to unlocking the potential of organisations and driving sustainable growth.

The Northern Echo: Participants in a Durham Business Growth Networking Workshop.Participants in a Durham Business Growth Networking Workshop. (Image: Durham County Council)

UMi: Tailored grants and expert funding guidance

UMi brings a unique blend of rigor and creativity to the Durham Business Growth initiative. With a history of collaboration with governments, charities, corporates, universities and more, UMi stands as a beacon of responsible business ethics and standards.

The Durham Business Growth’s comprehensive grants programme, managed by UMi, provides businesses with access to a capital fund of £3.3m, offering grants from £10,000 to £200,000.

Additionally, a revenue fund of £700,000 supports grants ranging from £1,000 to £10,000 for specialist consultancy. UMi’s Business Funding Advisor role ensures businesses receive the guidance needed to secure funding, polish project plans and make grant applications shine, drawing on UMi’s extensive knowledge of successful grant funding strategies.

Sarah Slaven, Managing Director of Business Durham, said: “We understand that each business is unique and Durham Business Growth is dedicated to building support around each company to ensure they receive the best possible tailored support for their individual needs. This is achieved through a fantastic mix of support from the programme, including capital grants, revenue grants, one-to-one support and one-to-many support tailored to businesses irrespective of their sector.

“The strength of support from the three partners – Business Durham, RTC North and UMi – lies in our breadth and depth of knowledge and experience which provides a wealth of expertise to the initiative.”

Nicki Clark OBE, Chief Executive of UMi, said: “County Durham has incredible potential which the Durham Business Growth Programme is focused on maximising.

“At UMi we have one purpose – to take the hard work out of finding and using the best information, expertise and finance to help businesses go further, so we are really excited to continue our longstanding relationship with Business Durham and Durham County Council and to play an active role in helping businesses to maximise their potential right across the county.”

John Heslop, from RTC North, said: “RTC North is delighted and enthused to be a partner alongside UMi in supporting Business Durham with this exciting and innovative programme developed for businesses across County Durham. Collectively, we will bring a wealth of experience, guidance and knowhow to help businesses with their own improvement and growth ambitions.”

Durham Business Growth initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Business Durham, UMi and RTC North have come together with a shared goal of driving economic prosperity in County Durham. Through tailored support, grants and a commitment to excellence, these delivery partners are paving the way for businesses to thrive, grow and contribute to the region’s success.

For more information on Durham Business Growth, visit www.durhambusinessgrowth.co.uk