The range of support the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub offers came as something of a surprise to many members of the Stray Ferret Business Club at its first lunch meeting.

From accessing government grants, achieving carbon neutral or digital marketing support, Andrew Raby from the Hub outlined the broad range of help available for any business whether established or a start-up.

Mr Raby encouraged businesses to contact them with any queries -- no matter how specific.  There was a lively discussion at the Stray Ferret Business Club following his talk with questions about the value of social media, to HR support and the end of European grants following Brexit.

When asked about evidence of impact the Growth Hub has on a business, Mr Raby discussed the results of a national evaluation of all Growth Hubs that took place from 2015 - 2020.  It reported “evident sustained growth” and found an impressive 17% increase in turnover for those companies who used Growth Hubs.

As well as providing specialist business advice, Mr Raby also highlighted the number of resources the Growth Hub has on offer to businesses.

The organisation can direct businesses to relevant funding sources, research institutions and local support schemes.

So, if it's accessing grants or apprenticeships, the Growth Hub can help you.

The discussion at the Business Club Lunch established the benefits all sectors can reap from the working with the Growth Hub.

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