Building on the previous success of delivering business innovation and COVID recovery support, the University of Bedfordshire partnered with Central Bedfordshire Council to deliver business innovation and growth support initiatives within the Central Bedfordshire region under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF)

The initiative aimed to help businesses identify and solve key challenges—whether expanding into new markets, developing new products, reducing costs, recruiting skilled employees, or understanding the impact of environmental issues. The support enabled businesses to take strategic steps forward while managing their day-to-day operations effectively.

Who was the support for?

• Established businesses of any size - registered in the Central Bedfordshire region
• Businesses looking for innovation and growth support
  
  

What did the programme offer?

Eligible businesses able to receive fully funded support, benefited from:

• 1-2-1 consultancy
• Academic-led student projects
• Subsidised graduate employment
• Access to grant funding
• Peer to peer networking
• Access to workshops and short courses
  
  

UKSPF provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.