Richmond Council has introduced a new business support programme, funded by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) to enhance the skills of businesses in the borough and help them make more sustainable decisions.

The Zenith Enterprise Programme, delivered by CPG Executive Consulting Ltd, offers comprehensive support that aims to equip participants with essential tools to start a business, improving their digital adoption and enhancing their opportunities for expansion.

Cllr Phil Giesler, Lead Member for Business and Growth said: "We are working to make Richmond Upon Thames a focus for innovation and growth that benefits the people who live here.

"That means creating an environment where local businesses and entrepreneurs can thrive."

He added: "The Council has many years' experience delivering and commissioning successful business support programmes. 

"We are committed to building on that success with the Zenith Enterprise Programme, as we strive to meet the demands of the borough by attracting business and helping them stay resilient and adaptable in the face of change."

Support will be offered through in-person workshops, online webinars, networking events, one-to-one support, peer-to-peer collaboration, and an on-demand library of high-quality training - accessible 24/7 on the MyGrowthPod platform.

Training will also be available at various locations across the borough to ensure sessions are widely accessible.

CPG Executive Consulting has assisted over 35,000 individuals in starting up and growing their businesses for over a decade. 

The introduction of this programme showcases Richmond Council's commitment to supporting local businesses and residents, by fostering innovation and driving sustainable growth.

The programme is free to Richmond based businesses, or residents wishing to set up a business, and runs until March 2025.

Helen Roberts, Founder & Managing Director of CPG Executive Consulting said: "It astounds me, the resilience of small businesses.

"It's tough at the best of times and it's especially tough out there right now. 

"First, it was Brexit, then the Pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, but entrepreneurs continue to strive.

"They inspire us every day. I am thrilled to be rolling out business support across the Borough of Richmond to work with sole traders, partnerships, micros, and SMEs through these challenging times."

Additionally, Richmond Council is launching the Greening Your Business programme which aims to help businesses to reduce their carbon footprint, increase energy efficiency and work towards net zero.

This sustainable growth programme is run by Carbon Architecture and supports companies to achieve carbon reductions and leads to a Level 1 accreditation of the Green Mark, showcasing their environmental commitments.

Cllr Giesler said: "Supporting the green economy is an essential part of achieving our overall targets of being carbon net zero as a council by 2030 and across the Borough by 2043.

"We recognise the significant contribution businesses make to the economy in the Borough, so we're delighted to be able to offer this opportunity to help them grow sustainably and invest in our future."

To sign up to the free Zenith Enterprise Programme, register online.

To learn more about the Greening Your Business programme, please visit the Business Hub where details for sign up will be available shortly.