Partner Article

North East businesses unravel innovation

Business Link has launched a new campaign to help North East businesses to become more efficient and increase profitability.

A recent Business Link survey has revealed that the two main priorities for North East businesses this year are growing the business and finding new customers. Focusing on these key areas, the Unravel Innovation campaign encourages businesses in the region to look at how making small changes to their business model can make a real impact.

Business Link adviser Stuart Downie explains: “The concept of innovation is huge and can apply to all walks of life, all elements of business and all sectors in varying capacities. It’s no wonder some businesses question whether innovation applies to them. The simple answer is that it does.

“Innovation can take all forms, shapes and sizes. It’s more about changes, big or small, that improve business performance rather than world-changing ideas.

“It also makes your business stand out from the crowd. Every company needs to have something that differentiates it from its rivals – be it a truly unique product or selling proposition, or simply the promise of service excellence. Finding this selling point is the key to unlocking the potential that exists in your organisation.”

Business Link has launched the new campaign to support business across the region make changes that can really make a difference. Businesses can receive a free comprehensive guide to all things innovative by visiting the website www.real-innovators.co.uk. The guide offers a range of support, from improving productivity and efficiency, reducing costs and gaining a competitive advantage to new partnerships and relationships, an increased turnover and profitability.

Business Link has a team of specialist advisers who can help you innovate - providing access to information, advice, and specialist services. This includes support with business planning, sourcing appropriate suppliers, and working with organisations to ensure innovation is applied as appropriately and effectively as possible. Just call 0845 600 9 006 to speak to or arrange an appointment with a Business Link adviser.

There is also a range of funding support available, which can be accessed via the Business Link service, to help North East businesses innovate and move forward. Business Link advisers can assess your business needs and identify the best finance option for you.

In the North East there is a great deal of talent and we are proving that we are great innovators. The region has already been ranked the most inventive region – generating more patents per person per pound invested in R&D than any other UK region in the last decade.

And that’s just the start. Business Link works with thousands or businesses each year and many of them are look to or have made changes that really make a difference.

Business Link in on hand to support you with any aspect of your business – and help you look at ways to increase your market share, find new customers and increase productivity. Become a real innovator and visit www.real-innovators.co.uk to download your free innovation pack or call us on 0845 600 9 006 for further details.

To see an example case study click here.

The Business Link service is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .