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Help to Grow

Invest time in your leadership and unlock your business's potential with Help to Grow, a 12-week course for senior managers seeking development opportunities.

The Hope Street Xchange exterior at night

What is Help to Grow?

Help to Grow is a 12-week course designed for senior managers who want to drive real change in their business. You’ll take part in a mix of online and face-to-face sessions, supported by mentoring and peer networking.

With just one session a week, the course is built to fit around your work and personal commitments. By the end, you’ll have the tools and confidence to boost profitability, spark innovation, and accelerate growth.

Whether you’re looking to streamline the way you work, reach new markets, or put together a clear plan for the future, this course will help you take your business to the next level.

Course modules

  • Strategy and Innovation
  • Digital Transformation
  • Winning New Markets
  • Vision, Mission, and Values
  • Developing a Marketing Strategy
  • Building a Brand Case Study
  • Organisation Design
  • Employment, Engagement, and Leading Change
  • High Performance Workplace Study
  • Effective Operations
  • Finance and Financial Management
  • Implementing Growth Plans Case Study.

What does the course cost?

The government covers 90% of the course fee, so you’ll pay just £750. If you’d like to chat about payment options – including the possibility of a fully funded place – drop us an email at helptogrow@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab).


What are the benefits?

There are plenty of benefits for both you and your business, including:

  • Building your network – connect with peers locally, regionally, and nationally to share insights, experiences, and practical solutions
  • Sharpening your marketing – develop focused strategies by identifying the right customer segments and positioning your business clearly
  • Strengthening your leadership – grow your skills in strategic planning, team engagement, finance, and marketing
  • Working with a mentor – create a tailored growth strategy that aligns with your business’s goals and ambitions
  • Bringing your team with you – discover effective ways to engage your people and build a future-ready organisational structure
  • Streamlining operations – boost productivity, reduce costs, and free up valuable time.

Who's eligible for the course?

To take part in the course, you’ll need to:

  • Work for a small or medium-sized business based in the UK
  • Be part of a business with between 5 and 249 employees
  • Hold a senior leadership role with direct reports.

Full eligibility criteria are available on the Small Business Charter website(opens in new tab).


Contact us

For more information, please email us at helptogrow@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab), or register directly on the Small Business Charter website(opens in new tab).