10 of Greater Manchester’s most ambitious technology-focused companies have been given a unique opportunity to learn from international business leaders at a global summit in Lisbon – through a programme to encourage the global expansion of GM SMEs.
GC Business Growth Hub, part of The Growth Company and part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, is accompanying the businesses as part of itsGlobal Scale-up Programme, designed to foster international trade ambitions among regional SMEs.
Web Summit hailed as “the best technology conference on the planet” by Forbes magazine, runs from 4th – 7th November this year, uniting CEOs, fast-growing start-ups, policymakers and even heads of state, to discuss the future direction of technology.
Through their place on the Global Scale-up programme, Greater Manchester businessesMercarto, The Link App and Spinr will be exhibiting at the sold-out event.
On the first international visit as part of the programme, the Hub is also hosting a series of tailored workshops for its Greater Manchester cohort, focussed on international tax, Silicon Valley, corporate finance and pitch techniques. KPMG will host these fringe events, also welcoming delegates from corresponding London and Leeds cohorts.
Richard Jeffery, Director of Growth at GC Business Growth Hub, said: “With the expansion of direct routes from Manchester Airport and continuing inward investment from international growth markets, there has never been a better time for Greater Manchester businesses to think on a global level.
“Businesses that have robust international strategies are generally more productive than non-exporters, are able to prolong the lifespan of their products or services and can achieve more impressive economies of scale. All these factors can help growing businesses deliver stronger financial performance over the longer term.
“This month’s visit is a key component of our Global Scale-up programme; helping broaden the horizons of Greater Manchester businesses through learnings from international peers, as well as opening up a broad range of connections and collaborative opportunities.”
Sean Brown, CEO & Founder of cohort member Mercarto, said: “Attending this year’s Web Summit will provide a unique opportunity to engage with our global customers, explore what international competitors are doing well, and to make valuable connections that may lead to future collaborations.
“Connectivity and sustainability are two of Mercarto’s fundamental business principles. Our internationalisation strategy will be key in connecting to new markets and customers, as well as ensuring the sustained growth of our business in the long term.
“The Global Scale-up programme has already been transformational for our business and really helped define our international growth ambitions. The support we’ve received has been incredible; our Hub advisors already feel like additional members of our team, constantly pushing us forwards with great advice to help us achieve our goals.”
The Global Scale-up programme will re-open for applications in 2020. For more details, visit: https://www.businessgrowthhub.com/global-scale-up-programme
