Every quarter we take stock of the work happening behind the scenes — the introductions made, the problems solved, and the businesses supported across our membership. This quarter, the numbers tell a compelling story.
BY THE NUMBERS
47 member businesses received direct chamber support. £1.2M in funding introductions facilitated. 12 new export connections established. 3 major procurement contracts secured via chamber referrals. 220 attendees across 6 networking and training events.
These are not just statistics. Behind each number is a business owner who picked up the phone, came to an event, or sent an email — and got something genuinely useful in return.
FUNDING AND FINANCE
Working closely with our network of regional finance partners, the chamber facilitated introductions between 14 member businesses and alternative funding providers this quarter. Of those, 9 progressed to formal applications, and 6 have since received offers totalling approximately £1.2 million in combined funding.
"We had been turned down by two high street banks," said one member, a manufacturing business based in the region. "The chamber introduction led us to a growth lender we simply would not have found on our own. We are now investing in equipment that will double our capacity."
EXPORT AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Our international trade programme connected 12 member businesses with verified overseas buyers and distribution partners this quarter — the highest number in a single quarter since the programme launched. Markets included Germany, the UAE, and Singapore.
If your business is considering export for the first time, or looking to enter a new market, our trade team offers free one-to-one consultations for all chamber members.
RECRUITMENT AND TALENT
Three members used the chamber's recruitment introduction service this quarter to connect with local talent pools and educational institutions. Two have since made permanent hires. We are continuing to develop this programme and expect to announce a new partnership with a regional university before the end of the year.
WHAT IS COMING NEXT QUARTER
Over the next three months the chamber will be launching a new mentoring programme, hosting the Annual Business Excellence Awards, and publishing our annual State of Business report — a comprehensive survey of trading conditions across the region.
If you would like to contribute to the State of Business survey, nominate a business for the Excellence Awards, or explore how the chamber can support your specific growth objectives, we would love to hear from you.