Northumberland training provider ‘transformed’ by local SME support programme

Hexham based Swayed Greyhound has thanked Business Northumberland for its support which has seen the business increase profit and forecast an even brighter 2023.

Swayed Greyhound was established in 2007 after founder Ian Graham attended a training course while working in sales that completely shifted his career path. After finding out about Business Northumberland, the sales and customer service training company started making the most of the fully funded support service straight away.

Business Northumberland provides support to small and medium enterprises across the North East who are looking to sustain and grow their business online. The fully funded support programme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Advance Northumberland, so there is no cost to eligible businesses when accessing the support.

A regular attendee at Business Northumberland’s networking events, Ian has also featured as a guest speaker and delivered a taster training session to enthusiastic delegates. Leading the session, Ian was able to give an insight to the “fun, engaging and inspirational” training the company delivers.

As well as attending networking events to grow Swayed Greyhounds business portfolio, Ian has received support through Business Northumberland’s extensive digital workshop programme, 1-2-1 support from a dedicated Business Growth Adviser as well as receiving 12 hours of 1-2-1 support from a business coach provided by the programme.

After attending some workshops, Ian wanted to take a more targeted approach to his business planning and received 12 hours of 1-2-1 fully funded coaching from Mathew Curtis (M4C Ltd).

Ian commented: “The digital skills courses have enhanced my proficiency on social media which has brought in more business. “The more targeted approach developed with Matt has helped with my marketing activity and the conversations I have with new customers”.

Swayed Greyhound has now recorded turnover to that of pre-pandemic and with projections for the next year, the business shows no signs of slowing down.

Ian added: “You have the opportunity to learn new stuff, connect with new people and get some great advice. The advice I’ve received from (Business Growth Adviser) in the last year has been valuable and has increased turnover”.

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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