‘Platforms such as this are crucial to small businesses because they provide knowledge and an understanding of the skills necessary to deal with challenges that can stifle growth. The first phase of the Smart Supplier Programme kicks off with 150 vendors who go through various issues concerned with business development. From that, 40 are selected and provided with access to markets and introductions to buyers and other new opportunities,’ said Alderman James Vos, the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.

 

As part of the application process, vendors need to specify how they need to be helped and will thereafter be taken through a series of masterclasses.

 

To qualify, vendors must meet criteria including the following:

‘As the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, everything I do is with a strong focus on building a more equal, inclusive and sustainable economy. A big part of this means maintaining and further developing the foundation for small businesses to continue being the engine room of growth by providing the right mix of smart procurement and supplier development support. Courses such as these help budding businesses to overcome obstacles and expand their operations which means more job opportunities and, ultimately, a stronger economy,’ said Alderman Vos.