Help to Grow: Management – Starting 2 June
Small business leaders across Oxfordshire now have the opportunity to join a proven, government‑backed leadership programme designed to support ambitious growth.
Oxford Brookes University Business School is recruiting for the next cohort of Help to Grow: Management, a 12‑week leadership and management programme created specifically for SME leaders who want to strengthen how they run and grow their business.
We’re delighted to be promoting this opportunity across the Oxford Innovation Space network, and we’re encouraging our customers to take advantage of this practical, high‑impact programme.
What is Help to Grow: Management?
Help to Grow: Management is a flagship national programme, developed by UK Government and delivered by Small Business Charter‑accredited business schools, including Oxford Brookes University.
The course is designed to fit around running a business, combining expert academic insight with real‑world application. Over 12 weeks, participants take part in:
- 12 structured learning modules
- Peer group learning sessions with other SME leaders
- One‑to‑one mentoring with an experienced business mentor
From the outset, participants begin building a Growth Action Plan, ensuring learning translates directly into practical, measurable business improvement.
What will you learn?
The curriculum focuses on the core areas that drive productivity, resilience and long‑term success, including:
- Strategy and innovation – clarifying direction, strengthening competitive advantage and identifying growth opportunities
- Digital transformation – using digital tools and technology to improve efficiency and scalability
- Customer engagement and marketing – developing stronger value propositions and targeted marketing strategies
- Leadership and culture – building engaged teams, purpose and organisational resilience
- Responsible business and performance – improving financial management and sustainable business practices
Who is the programme for?
The course is open to UK businesses that:
- Have been operating for more than one year
- Employ 5–249 people
- Are led by a founder, director or senior decision‑maker
It’s particularly suited to leaders who may be technical experts or experienced managers and are now looking for formal management development to support their next phase of growth.
Why join?
Participants benefit from:
- Practical learning that can be applied immediately
- Expert academic insight aligned to real SME challenges
- Peer support and shared learning across sectors
- Continued access to a national alumni network and free events after completing the programme
With 93% of participants saying they would recommend the course, Help to Grow: Management is already making a tangible difference to thousands of UK businesses.
Course details & how to register
- Start date: 2 June
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Delivered by: Oxford Brookes University Business School
Register online via the Small Business Charter website here
Important:
When completing your registration, please make sure you select “Innovation Oxf” when asked “How did you hear about the course?” This ensures your place is correctly linked to the OI Space network.
* The £750 funding is subject to meeting the university’s entry criteria.
A unique opportunity to grow with confidence
Whether you’re planning your next stage of expansion, navigating uncertainty, or looking to professionalise how your business is run, Help to Grow: Management provides the tools, confidence and support to lead with purpose and drive sustainable growth.