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School SME masterclass session supports local innovation and growth

3 October 2024
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Group of photographs from the SME masterclass event in Newcastle

A two-day masterclass aimed at small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the North East of England was recently held in Newcastle. The event, offered as part of our Smart and Scale programme, was aimed at helping to drive economic development across the region.

About Smart and Scale 

The Smart and Scale project will support the growth and innovation of industry in the North East until 2029, by providing locally based start-ups and small businesses with the information, education, tools and networks they need to succeed. The masterclass forms part of this mission. 

The School invited 34 professionals from diverse sectors including; technology, not-for-profit, marketing, construction, manufacturing, biosciences and real estate to engage in skills development workshops, discussions and networking. 

Leading academics and industry experts 

The masterclass workshops were delivered by our leading academics on topics including Leadership, Organisational Change and Strategy, providing attendees the opportunity to learn and then discuss and practice new skills and techniques. 

Local industry experts were also present to provide their insights. Keynote speakers included Nicki Clark OBE, CEO of Umi, and Kelly Whitfield, entrepreneur and founder of Klik.  

Addressing the challenges faced by SMEs 

The Smart and Scale project was established in the aftermath of a number of broad challenges to impact the small business sector in the UK, and in anticipation of significant transitions to come.   

Katherine Kirby, Senior Business Development Manager at the School explains, “Events such as these are vital for ensuring continued economic growth and innovation in the region. This was a fantastic event bringing together leading academics from Durham University with small business owners in the North East. Running a small business is a 24/7 job, so giving practitioners the space to reflect on their own practices and develop their network is crucial”.  

Dr Jonathan Kimmitt, Professor of Entrepreneurship and academic lead for the project added, “SMEs in the UK are going through a “triple transition” that brings together three interrelated challenges of digitalisation, net zero and productivity. At Durham University Business School, Smart and Scale is designed to support SME innovation, scale up, resilience, and economic development in the North East. It is underpinned by the four key research themes that represent key challenges for growth in the region: New Business Models, Leadership, Emerging Technologies, and Supply Chains,.”  

A positive experience 

Attendees’ feedback showed that they have found the masterclass to be an invaluable experience. 

“It was a very enjoyable learning experience with inspirational people, says Andy Wake, CEO of Kave Immersive, “It was a fun couple of days learning and networking. Everyone involved should be applauded” 

Brian Mantilla of Coffea Espression agrees. “It was a unique opportunity for receiving excellent advice and information to implement in our business.” 

In addition to masterclass events, Smart and Scale facilitates research by funding large scale projects, incubates new business ideas through the Social Science Enterprise Lab, and offers  a programme for Visiting SME Fellows.  

More information 

  • Find out more about opportunities For business to work with us  
  • Discover our business-focussed research