Greater Manchester businesses are thriving — but for those ready to take the next leap, international expansion offers a powerful route to scale. That’s why GM Business Growth Hub in partnership with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and Department for Business and Trade have launched the International Scale Up Programme, a new initiative to help ambitious SMEs unlock global markets.
Why Go Global?
Exporting isn’t just for the big players. SMEs that trade internationally are:
- Growing faster
- More productive
- More resilient than those who don’t.
Here’s why international growth should be your next move:
- 90% of global growth is happening outside the UK – If you're only selling domestically, you're missing out on the biggest opportunities.
- The UK has an estimated USD$248 billion in untapped export potential, especially in high-value sectors like digital, manufacturing, and professional services.
- Emerging economies will drive 60% of global GDP growth by 2030 – Getting into these markets now secures your position as an early mover.
- Exporting helps diversify revenue streams and reduce risk by accessing new customer bases.
- Exporters are 28.5% more productive than non-exporters.
- Greater Manchester exports grew by 34% between 2019 and 2023 – Be part of the companies elevating GM’s global presence.
Why Now? Navigating Uncertainty with Confidence
We get it — the global trade landscape feels more unpredictable than ever. From Brexit-related friction and US tariff surges to shifting UK-China relations, businesses are right to ask: Is now really the time to go global?
The answer is yes — with the right support.
Despite the challenges, UK SMEs that export are showing remarkable resilience. A recent study found that over half of internationally trading businesses are forecasting sales growth in 2025, and 64% of exporters are actively seeking new markets. This isn’t blind optimism — it’s strategic adaptation.
Here’s why now can be the right time to expand internationally:
- Diversification reduces risk: Exporting helps businesses spread their revenue across multiple markets, making them less vulnerable to domestic shocks or single-market disruptions.
- Government support is stronger than ever: The UK government has launched a £20 billion expansion in export finance, plus £2 million loan facilities through the British Business Bank to help SMEs manage cashflow and navigate tariffs.
- New tools for SMEs: UK Export Finance now offers tailored insurance and repeat order guarantees to help small businesses trade with confidence, even in volatile markets.
- Strategic partnerships are forming: The UK is actively negotiating trade deals and easing regulatory barriers with key partners, including the US and EU, to open up new opportunities for exporters.
Yes, the global environment is complex. But with the right strategy, support, and agility, Greater Manchester businesses can not only weather the storm — they can thrive in it.
Combined Efforts to Help GM Businesses on the International Stage
The International Scale Up Programme is a fully funded initiative born from a powerful collaboration between GM Business Growth Hub, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, and the Department for Business and Trade. Together, these organisations are delivering a unified support offer to help Greater Manchester businesses succeed globally.
Launching in mid-November 2025, the programme brings together the region’s top trade experts to guide businesses through a fast-paced journey of international growth. Participants will benefit from:
- 1-to-1 strategic advice tailored to their global ambitions
- Support with trade missions and exhibitions to explore new markets
- A £2,500 grant to help fund overseas expansion activities
- Workshops and peer learning led by industry specialists
- Guidance on scaling teams, refining strategy, and entering new markets
This programme is a testament to Greater Manchester’s commitment to building a globally competitive business community — and it’s open to companies ready to take that next step.
“For businesses seeking to grow, exporting isn’t just an option, it’s a catalyst for sustainable growth. Exporting can help companies scale up beyond local demand — it drives innovation, boosts competitiveness, and spreads risk across domestic and global markets,” said Susana Córdoba, Head of International Trade Services, GM Business Growth Hub.
Act Now — Applications Close Soon
If your business is ready to scale beyond borders, this is your moment. The International Scale Up Programme offers expert guidance, funding, and access to global opportunities — all fully funded and designed to help Greater Manchester businesses succeed internationally.
Applications close on 24 October 2025, and places are limited.
Don’t miss out — apply now and take your next step toward global growth.
Get in touch
Please contact us at 0161 3593050 or query below.
Take that first step and we’ll support you with whatever you need to succeed.
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