Launched earlier this year, HighGrowth East Midlands is designed to help businesses increase profits, enhance their competitive edge, and create conditions for long-term success. Despite the current economic climate, more than 70 East Midlands businesses are already benefiting from taking part in the initiative. The scheme forms part of emda’s long term strategy to stimulate high-quality innovation and accelerate regional economic growth.

HighGrowth East Midlands includes two programmes – Growth Readiness, for businesses that are ready and ambitious for growth, and High Growth, for businesses that are already growing rapidly. Recruitment for High Growth has now closed however companies interested in the Growth Readiness programme should continue to apply until the end of June.

The Growth Readiness programme provides a twelve-month package of support which includes diagnosis of the potential for development, a one-day coaching module focused on developing a strategic vision and plan, and ten days of individual coaching, and a one day course on Obtaining a Competitive Edge, delivered by Nottingham University Business School. It is designed to unlock the growth potential of the business and support the development of a strategic growth plan.

Market Harborough based Fast Floor Multimedia Ltd joined the Growth Readiness Programme this year. The marketing communications business has grown steadily since its inception in 1997 – having achieved 12.5% sales growth last year, it is on target to double growth this current financial year.

Managing Director Ron Wells said: “It is going brilliantly. We had been so busy running the company we were not thinking specifically of growth. Joining the Growth Readiness programme has focussed us and given us a chance to create our vision for the future and develop our strategy and plan for the next three years. Our coach has helped us visualise for ourselves where we are going.”

The application process couldn't be simpler - the online application process will only take approximately 30 minutes to complete and can be accessed at www.hgeastmidlands.com or call the helpline on 0845 365 4769 for further information.