Business leaders in Dorset are to have the chance to share their experience and expertise thanks to £300,000 funding from Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

Funded by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the Peer Networks Programme is designed to bring small and medium enterprise (SME) business leaders together.

Dorset’s award is equal third highest in England, with only Greater Manchester and Lancashire receiving more.

Lorna Carver, director Dorset LEP said: “Having worked with our delivery partners to deliver such a fantastic programme of support last year, we’re delighted to be able to keep the momentum going with this significant award for 2021. The size of the allocation we have secured for this year is a direct result of the success and impact of the programme last year.”

The Peer Networks programme is administered by Dorset Gateway (Dorset LEP’s growth hub) and will be delivered by three delivery partners; Evolve Members, Dorset Chamber – who were both involved in last year’s programme and – Dorset Business Mentors.

Working virtually in cohort groups of 11, sessions are facilitated by experienced business coaches and focus on key areas of business development. Each participant is also supported with dedicated one-to-one support, allowing them further opportunity to digest and discuss aspects of running and growing a business. 

Lorna Carver said: “Feedback from last year’s participants on the value and benefit of Peer Networks to their businesses has been outstanding. It’s a testament to our delivery partners for running such effective programmes. Eligible businesses can register their interest in this programme now and we look forward to helping more of Dorset’s fantastic SME business leaders and decision-makers benefit from this support over the coming months.”   

Dorset Chamber chief executive, Ian Girling said: “These types of programmes build incredibly strong bonds, friendships and trusted support networks which last long after the course has officially finished. The new programme couldn’t have come at a more important time as businesses look beyond the pandemic and to the future.”

The Peer Networks Programme is free for owners, directors and senior managers whose business employs between five and 250, has been in operation for more than 12 months and has a minimum turnover of £100,000.

For more information and to register for the Peer Networks programme, visit the Dorset LEP website: www.dorsetlep.co.uk/peer-networks-programme.