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Small business leaders graduate Goldman Sachs programme

The first Midlands cohort of small business and social enterprise leaders from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses programme have graduated from Aston University.

The programme also operates in Yorkshire, the North West and London, and is designed to promote economic growth and job creation through business education, support services and social enterprises.

Businesses in the first cohort were from a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, business services, technology, retail and education; and ranged in size from around £200,000 in turnover to over £3m.

Professor Mark Hart from Aston Business School, a globally recognised expert in entrepreneurship and small business performance, stated “The West Midlands has a large number of entrepreneurs across a range of business sectors including social enterprises, and we are proud that some of the best in the region are here graduating today.

“We are anticipating that they will now move quickly forward with their business growth plans and we have high hopes that they will deliver much-needed additional wealth and jobs for this area.

Michael Sherwood, Vice Chairman of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs International, said: “Supporting entrepreneurs is vital to driving the growth of the UK economy.

“The 10,000 Small Businesses programme aims to assist these entrepreneurs to maximize their potential and create jobs in the region.”

Habil Kapasi, founder of Jivaji Auto Factors Ltd, reported the programme had enabled him to take a more strategic view of his business, particularly in relation to suppliers, products and stock.

Nick Morgan, co-founder of events and marketing company, Big Cat Group, said participating the programme has resulted in significant changes in his strategy for growing the business.

Applications are currently open for the third intake of the programme in the Midlands, which will take place between October 2012 and February 2013.

Preview events are taking place between April and June, providing an opportunity for leaders of small businesses and social enterprises in the Midlands to learn more about the programme and how to apply.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .