Local Businesses Support In Export



A scheme to help Sheffield businesses expand their overseas trade is being launched in the city.

Up to 30 businesses will be selected to join the programme which is designed to support companies new to exporting; assist those with limited experience to exploit the opportunities they have uncovered and, ultimately, to deliver sustainable growth and jobs for the city.

The programme will work alongside Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, the South Yorkshire International Trade Forum and the Government’s UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) department to ensure that our businesses receive the best possible support to succeed overseas.

Recruitment for the programme is now underway in earnest and the City Council are keen to hear from businesses in any sector with the ambition, resources and commitment to secure international business.

Rachel Jarvis, Executive Director of Cobra Sport Exhausts UK Ltd said: “As a growing business, we are extremely keen to tap into the opportunities overseas markets can offer us. However, as ‘first time’ exporters, we need to be able to access support and expertise to help us to identify the most appropriate markets and the best ways to tackle them.

“This initiative from the Council, operating alongside UKTI, is precisely the kind of practical, expert input small companies such as ours need.”

The focus of the programme is to bring together a package of support tailored to the businesses’ needs. This will provide practical guidance for tackling all key stages of exporting: researching markets; contacting customers and how to get the best out of visiting a market.

Delivery will involve a team of Business Advisors and experienced export Mentors, and will draw on the services of UKTI, links with twin cities and the support of some key private sector partners.

Councillor Leigh Bramall, the City Council’s Cabinet Member for Business, Skills and Development added: “We are committed to being a Business Friendly Council, committed to supporting local businesses. Now that resources are so tight, it is particularly important to direct our funding into key projects that will stimulate growth.

“We want to make sure local businesses are prepared for developing the overseas markets that will help them and the wider economy grow and, in time, provide new jobs for local people. This scheme is the first of a package of measures being worked on to grow the economy."

Companies interested in taking part in the programme should contact the Sheffield Enterprise Gateway on 0800 0435522.