Partner Article

County Durham firms get expert help to grow

Companies of all sizes are getting help to grow further thanks to a unique service. Fastest 50 is a business development programme put together by the county’s five enterprise agencies.

It began in 2007 and has proved successful enough to be extended for a further year. Business owners and managers benefit from a combination of workshop sessions and around 36 hours of one-to-one support from a mentor with a track record of success. Companies get advice on areas such as finance, marketing, training and IT.

Bishop Auckland-based Medical Services (North East) operates a private ambulance service as well as delivering first aid training. Spokesman Wayne Hall said: “Fastest 50 has completely turned our business around. Within a few months our sales were up 56% on the previous year and his is all down to the programme.”

Shaun Stewart, Chief Executive of The Enterprise Agency said: “Fastest 50 is about inspiring people, raising aspirations, innovation and improving business skills.”

Anyone interested in Fastest 50 should contact the agency for their area - Chester le Street & City of Durham 0191 384 5407 or www.cdcbp.org.uk ; Derwentside Enterprise Agency 01207 580011; East Durham Business Service 01833 696600 or www.theenterpriseagency.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .