WORKSHOPS TO SUPPORT BUSINESS GROWTH, COMPETITIVENESS & PROFITABILITY

Background and aims We have a need to procure a pool of providers to deliver tactical workshops to Cumbrian SMEs as part of intensive business support programmes aimed at enhancing their growth, competitiveness and profitability. We are looking, within the pool, for specific topics and for providers to facilitate and present half and full day workshops across Cumbria in line with client needs and interests. Proposals are welcome from individuals and from organisations. Specific requirements Subject specific workshops, tailored to suit the needs of Cumbrian SMEs, to be offered as part of intensive support to: • ERDF eligible businesses (in essence most B2B SMEs) through the ERDF Growth Hub project • Non ERDF eligible businesses through the Growth Hub provision funded by local authorities (primarily retail, consumer services, agriculture, visitor economy and nuclear) Topics • Data protection • Food photography and/or styling • Speech/presentation writing • Budget management • Negotiation skills • Coaching/Mentoring • Creative problem solving • Analytical/strategic thinking • Broadcast media training • Document control (specifically for Supply Chain) • Exploring whether international trade is right for the business • Networking • Online reputation • Optimising websites for lead generation • Social media content • Cyber security essentials • Appraisals/performance management • Contract management • Influencing/motivating • Introduction to company accounts • First line management • Preparing quality plans • Evaluation and developing quality assurance systems • Risk/resilience management • Change management • Business analytics • Business writing • Delegation skills • Employee engagement • Writing SOPs • Senior management skills • Women in leadership

Note: there are also opportunities to work with the Chamber on its commercial offer, Chamber Business Solutions, which we may approach you separately about. You will be required to: • Design and deliver your workshop(s) and any supporting materials, branded in line with Chamber/Growth Hub, ERDF and other funder requirements, to be delivered in suitable venues anywhere in the county • Ensure clients participating in the workshops fully and correctly complete all relevant project paperwork • Work with the Growth Hub to generate interest in attending the workshops and engage businesses in signing up to support • Ensure a highly professional service which meets the needs of participants and partners and contributes to the projects' overall targets. Topics, locations and timings will be in line with identified client needs and interests. Venue and refreshment costs will normally be arranged and paid for by the Growth Hub. If your proposal includes venue and refreshments please make this clear and explain your reasoning. Content of submission Your submission should cover as a minimum: • Title, brief description, outline of content and any target audience of the workshop(s) being offered, rationale, proposed o