Peer knowledge will help Lancashire businesses under new Boost programme

Peer Networks, which is being funded by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and led locally by Boost; Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub, will bring together business leaders to collaborate and overcome key common issues in a structured way.

The fully-funded scheme is available to Lancashire businesses more than a year old employing more than five people, with a turnover of more than £100,000 and an appetite to improve.

It aims to help SMEs build resilience against a challenging economic backdrop, develop in-house capabilities and grow.

Boost has appointed 17 delivery partner networks, who will each facilitate groups of 8-11 businesses across a range of sectors.

Andrew Leeming, programme manager, Boost, said: “At a time when Lancashire is working hard to overcome the deep economic challenges brought about by coronavirus, we’re proud to be working with Government to give the county’s business leaders the chance to come together, share knowledge and overcome common issues.

“We have a huge amount of business talent, insight and experience already within the county.

“Giving businesses the platform to learn from each other and apply that gained knowledge in a structured way will help us tackle the short-term challenges and position Lancashire for further long-term growth.”

Steve Fogg, chairman of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, said: “Over recent months, both the public and private sectors have responded brilliantly to unprecedented economic challenges, working together .”