MEMBERNEWS Mentoring programme for small firms
BT has pledged to deliver free one-to- one coaching sessions to at least 1,000 small businesses – and is encouraging small firms across the East Midlands to register their interest. In partnership with Digital Boost –
a free non-profit platform which unites digital experts with SME owners – the new mentoring programme is designed to support small businesses in the region during the pandemic. The initiative is part of BT’s Small
Business Support Scheme, which includes a broad range of measures to help small businesses get better positioned for growth during and beyond the pandemic. Sarah Walker, BT director for
corporate and public sector in the Midlands, said: “Helping small businesses to acquire new skills and boost their confidence during these exceptionally challenging times is a central part of BT’s Small Business Support Scheme. “We’ve already equipped a
further 20,000 small businesses with digital skills since the launch of the scheme and now we’re going even further by introducing a free mentoring programme.” BT has enlisted the expertise of
its colleagues across the business – including senior executives – to
‘Helping small businesses to acquire new skills and boost their confidence during these exceptionally challenging times’
upskill SMEs on a range of topics including cyber security, marketing, social media and strategy. Digital Boost will connect small
firms with the relevant BT expert via its free online platform, where they are able to register their interest in booking a free virtual mentoring session.
Sarah added: “By partnering with
Digital Boost, we can engage our own colleagues around the need to step up and support small businesses, with experts in our team volunteering their time as BT mentors. “Our ambition is to scale this
very quickly and involve colleagues
from all levels, including the senior leadership team. “I would encourage any small
businesses in the East Midlands that feel they would benefit from this direct support to book a spot as soon as possible via the website.” Off the back of its work with the
Small Business Support Scheme, BT also announced the findings of its economic impact report, where the company said it generates £769m in gross value added (GVA) for the East Midlands economy. The report estimates that around
9,800 full-time jobs in the region are supported by BT through direct, indirect and induced effects. The firm also spent £130m with suppliers based in the East Midlands, including those in the construction and telecommunications industries, as well as those involved in film, video, music and broadcasting activities.
Small businesses interested in mentoring support can book a free one-to-one coaching session by visiting
www.digitalboost.org.uk
10 business networkMarch 2021
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