Established at the start of the year, our BGH Alumni support us to maintain strong relationships with our clients following the completion of their fully funded one-to-one specialist support from our GM Business Growth Hub advisors. From recognition as our BGH Alumni, we continue to support them through their Hub journey as their business grows and develops and nurture our community. We want to ensure that our clients remain part of our community and ecosystem beyond their business support from the Hub. 

Expertly curated workshops  

With topics including AI, Company Culture, Podcasting, Business Strategy and more, we delivered what our community wanted and received excellent feedback from our attendees. Here’s a recap of our BGH Alumni workshops delivered in collaboration with our partners. 

Having received positive feedback from these BGH Alumni sessions, our participants left with lots of bespoke advice for their businesses from our expert Partners, as well as clear action points, plus the tools and knowledge to create their own blueprints for success in the topics covered. 
 
Introduction to podcasting: With the increased trend and focus on podcasting and video podcasting, we kicked off the Summer with ‘Introduction to Podcasting’ delivered at Reform Radio’s studios in Deansgate. Podcasting Manager Olivia Swift, Audio Producer Rebecca Gaskell and RR Director Sam Oliveira guided our group through three key areas – what is a podcast? How would it add value to your business/customers/reputation? How do you achieve that with the resources you have? We also considered the 3P benefits of podcasting - Publicity, Prestige & Popularity.  
 
AI for Strategic Decision Makers: Next up, Rob Humphreys hosted our AI workshop. Designed for senior leaders eager to harness the transformative power of AI, this hands-on session deepened our guests' understanding of AI trends, particularly the power of ChatGPT and other AI technologies. 

Company culture and why is matters: With increased importance for the GM workforce, company culture is shaping the way people decide on future employment pathways. Moving into August, Gabriela Hammond and Catherine Hare from Forbes took us on a whistle stop tour through the topic, how to find the right people to add to and complement your existing business, how to introduce new people to established teams or working structures, and how to develop a line management structure that is fit for growth.  

Scaling Up your Business: How your People can Support your Business for Growth: As we know, businesses often face difficulties as their workforce grows from the original smaller set up. In this workshop, we explored a number of key topics that would support a business through what can be a challenging transition. In a nutshell, how to ensure that your employees are engaged and with you on your growth journey. 

Relentless Growth: Take Your Business to the Next Level in 5 Steps: In August, we also welcomed Amos Beer who introduced us to STRATAGILITY in his interactive session. This contemporary version of strategic planning overcomes the inherent drawbacks of ‘traditional’ strategic planning processes and ensures a practical, actionable, and relevant plan while energising and motivating your team. 

Freelance Marketing Mastery: Harnessing Top Talent for Exceptional Results: The following month, we benefitted from Rachel Chesters’ vast marketing experience. In this workshop, we explored how to create a healthy marketing ecosystem that can get the best results for your business, ensuring that your projects run efficiently and effectively, whether you're managing the work in-house or collaborating with freelancers or an agency. 

What to do when a crisis threatens your reputation: We also welcomed Crisis Comms expert Amanda Coleman. Valuing your reputation is critical for any business to thrive and survive. Social media presents significant threats to a business and there are always those moments when a journalist could pop up and ask difficult questions.  

Connect and be part of our BGH Alumni  

Our BGH Alumni are supported by GM Business Growth Hub colleague, Deb Sullivan, who aims to connect, develop, and support our community. We are excited to continue bringing further opportunities to engage with Greater Manchester businesses following their Hub support.  

To find out more about starting your GM Business Growth Hub journey, enquire today! support community - businessgrowthhub