Online training course launches to support small business leaders with management skills

A new online training course as part of the government backed Help to Grow scheme has launched to support small business leaders to develop their management skills.

Help to Grow: Management Essentials offers practical tips and resources based on the content of the more in-depth 12-week Help to Grow: Management course. The Essentials programme is aimed at newer or smaller SMEs, or can act as a taster for businesses before taking the next step and enrolling in the full course.

Essentials is the latest addition to the extensive package of SME support announced by Government as part of the ‘Help to Grow’ campaign. Previous offers have included digital training, as well as resources for small businesses via the Help to Grow online site, which brings together resources from different government departments to support their growth.

Small Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake said:

“I’ve met so many business owners who have benefited from Help to Grow: Management, and now with the launch of Help to Grow: Management Essentials even more business people will be able to access the advice and resources they need to scale up and grow.

“2024 is the year of the SME and whether it’s through access to finance, support and advice, or removing barriers to growth: we’re helping them go further than ever before.“

Help to Grow: Management Essentials provides content across three modules through short videos and supporting resources and is free to access. Business leaders can access the course through the Help to Grow website.

Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, said:

“FSB has been making the case for a streamlined, digital taster session version of the Help to Grow Management course, and we’re delighted to see this now delivered. Businesses with fewer than five employees were ineligible for the full Help to Grow course, so this is particularly good news.

“This will better fit with the busy lives of small business owners who struggled with the initial commitment for 12-week intensive learning.

“It means many more can now access the benefits of Help to Grow and see the benefits of committing to the longer course as follow-up.

“Improving the skills of small business owners is in FSB’s DNA, so we’re pleased to see this new option for those wanting to grow their businesses, and the economy.”

Michael Hayman, MBE, Chair of the Small Business Charter said:

“Designed by the experts at Small Business Charter accredited business schools, the Help to Grow: Management Essentials Course will provide new opportunities for smaller firms to unlock their business potential.

“Essentials joins the full Help to Grow: Management Course which has already helped thousands of business leaders develop the skills they need to accelerate growth, productivity and innovation. Together they provide a unique opportunity for businesses across the SME community to benefit.“