The University’s business support offer has won national awards for its contribution to the region’s economy, and staff are now ready to make good use of expertise and resources in helping companies cope with the impact of Covid-19. Services range from helping businesses transition to an online offering, to working with them to access Government advice and financial support. In addition, Teesside Launchpad, the University’s graduate enterprise hub, will be rolling out its Microbiz Academy across the region, providing invaluable online support and advice to anyone wanting to set up an internet-based small business.

Laura Woods, Director of Academic Enterprise at Teesside University, said: “We’re all acutely aware of the massive challenges this crisis has created for businesses, both large and small. It’s vital that we work together as a region to help our businesses withstand the economic impact of Covid-19 and to be ready for strong recovery. We want to play our part in helping companies in the Tees Valley and further afield get through this crisis and emerge as strong as possible, positioned for competitive performance. We’ve developed this package of support from our existing business programmes and expertise, adapted to address what businesses will need in the current economic climate. We’re making our support flexible and bespoke so that it can meet individual needs, so we would urge any business to get in touch.”

Support offered by the University to businesses includes:

• Supporting companies transferring from physical services to online delivery
• Raising awareness and helping business access Government support
• One-to-one support for founders and business owners
• Writing bids for grants
• Business diagnostics and reviews of processes and needs
• Mentoring
• Webinars
• Brokerage and networks - connecting businesses with each other and with others who could help
• Ongoing help with graduate resource and recruitment
• Continued leadership and management support

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “The coronavirus pandemic is presenting an extraordinary and unprecedented challenge to every aspect of our lives, and companies of all sizes are feeling the impact. But this situation has seen us all pull together to help keep them afloat. I’m delighted that Teesside University has joined the growing ranks of organisations across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool that are offering their expertise to those who need it most, helping to protect and guide our brilliant businesses at this difficult time. Business owners and the self-employed shouldn’t forget they can get also information and advice on Government support by calling the Tees Valley Business Support Line on 01642 662 777 or emailing support@teesvalley-ca.gov.uk.”