‘One to Watch’ scale-up programme returns

A North East business programme has returned to help ambitious founders grow.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum is relaunching its acclaimed Scale-up Leaders’ Academy for 2026, with a refreshed format designed to maximise impact for founders and their teams. 

The programme now features an Entrepreneur in Residence initiative, giving participants direct access to experienced business leaders who have successfully navigated the challenges of scaling.

Alongside this, the Academy places greater emphasis on team engagement, helping leaders ensure their staff are aligned with the company’s growth ambitions. 

Cohort members also receive one-to-one coaching from Ian Kinnery, former European Coach of the Year, whose guidance has supported some of the North East’s fastest-growing businesses.

Designed for both founders and their teams, the programme focuses on building leadership capability, strengthening confidence and providing a clear roadmap for sustainable growth. 

Recognised nationally by the ScaleUp Institute as a ‘One to Watch’ programme, the Academy has already supported more than 60 entrepreneurs. 

Alumni have grown their teams by an average of 117 per cent, raised a combined £7 million in investment and celebrated three successful business exits.

To showcase what’s on offer for 2026, the Entrepreneurs’ Forum is hosting a series of taster sessions over the next month. 

Michael Dixon, who is leading the programme at the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “The Scale-up Leaders’ Academy has always been about giving ambitious founders the confidence, tools and network to scale.

“With our new Entrepreneur in Residence initiative and an even more engaged cohort experience, we’re ensuring that not just founders, but their whole teams, grow stronger together.”

Business leaders looking to take their companies to the next level are encouraged to get in touch to learn more.

For more information or to register your interest, visit entrepreneursforum.net/sula

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