But according to our business advisers at Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF), the evidence suggests that growth is very possible – and we have the stats to back it up!

A whopping 7 out of 10 businesses increased their turnover after using our Growth Advice Service, with 96% having taken action to grow, and 32% having developed new products, showing that where there’s a will there’s a way.

The most important part of joining the Growth Advice Service is that owners must have an aspiration to grow their business. To some, that might seem like an insurmountable barrier from the outset, but BBF’s evidence and experience tells a different story – that challenging economic landscapes are no barrier to growth for those who pursue it.

Jane Dell, Business Adviser and Programme Manager said: “More than 250 business owners followed up on their goal of growing their business and joined the fully-funded Growth Advice Service, and with a 4.9/5 star rating and 92% of owners recommending it to others, it seems that business growth does not have to be the exception, it can be the rule for businesses in Buckinghamshire.”

One business owner, Rebecca Marsala of Rebecca Marsala Flowers Ltd, said: “The Growth Advice Service has taught me how to look at my business as a business owner instead of simply working in the business, how to plan, put marketing plans into action, assess what is and isn’t working. All in all, it has been extremely useful and motivating and I feel more confident in moving my business forward.” 

Jane continued: “While challenging trading conditions place considerable pressure on local businesses, help is at hand for businesses to strengthen their skills for sustainable growth. The support is a mixture of time spent with a business adviser and a choice of exclusive events covering key topics such as strategic planning, digital marketing and finance, all tailored to meet the needs of the business.

“At a time when it seems there is doom and gloom around every corner, here’s something that can bring about sustainable, positive results, with the added benefit that it comes at no direct cost!”

What businesses can access the Growth Advice Service?

The Growth Advice Service is fully funded and is suitable for businesses with at least two people, who have a minimum turnover of £100,000, but most importantly have an aspiration to grow the business.

How to get involved

For more information and inspirational examples of business growth:

• visit the Growth Advice Service homepage at bbf.uk.com/growth-advice
• contact Jane Dell at [email protected] or 01494 927147

The Growth Advice Service is part of the Growth Programme, which is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and therefore eligibility criteria apply.

If your business is not eligible, Buckinghamshire Business First can signpost you to other local and national business support programmes available.

Thank you to the following partners for their support and involvement with the Growth Advice Service: APS Accountancy, Beyond Numbers, Choice Business Loans, Cranfield School of Management, Harwood Hutton, Now How, Thinkivity, and Tomorrow’s Business.