Sunderland Software City is working with Networking KnoWho to deliver fully-funded, strategic networking support to SMEs in the North East LEP area.
The support will help entrepreneurs, based in Durham, Tyne and Wear and Northumberland, to grow their businesses through increased lead generation, identifying collaboration opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs and feeling more confident about championing their own work both within and beyond the region.
“Through listening to industry we’ve learnt that many individuals don’t see the benefit in networking, and those that do often don’t take a strategic approach. This is either an opportunity missed or a waste of valuable time that could otherwise be spent on growing the business.
The activity we are delivering with Networking KnoWho will provide businesses with a tried and tested approach to networking. So whether you are looking for customers, funders or alliances, joining these sessions will help” explains Sophie Peel, Business Support Manager at Sunderland Software City.
“It’s exciting to be working with Sunderland Software City to extend our strategic networking support to SMEs in the region” comments Jeni Smith, Founder of Networking KnowWho.
“Over the last few months, networking has changed completely for these businesses. The introduction of remote networking, Zoom calls and Teams has taken over from the traditional small-talk over coffee.
“But being connected is more important than ever and trying to navigate the world of on and offline networking can be time consuming to say the least. I’m so passionate about helping businesses become more strategic in their approach to networking to improve ROI, discover new opportunities, and build collaborative long-term relationships.
Many individuals are terrified at the idea of speaking to people or ending those awkward conversations they get trapped in at events. We shouldn’t be however, networking is an essential part of business and the sessions we run just help people be comfortable and effective networkers.”
To access the fully funded strategic networking service, SMEs can contact Sophie Peel at Sunderland Software City for an appointment.
About Sunderland Software City
Sunderland Software City is enabling the growth of the technology sector in the North East of England; providing support and creating opportunities for aspiring and established software businesses. We aim to strengthen the region’s economy by helping individual companies to grow, create jobs and attract investment and through collaboration with partners across the UK, we champion North East tech. www.sunderlandsoftwarecity.com
Sunderland Software City is funded from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Department for Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund. Established by the European Union, European Regional Development Fund funds help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding
