Small Business, Big Ambitions: How Help to Grow is Fuelling SME Success
Small business owners across the county are being urged to take their business to the next level through the nationally acclaimed Help to Grow: Management Programme.
With the next cohort starting on 8th September 2025, delivered by Leeds University Business School, Liz Brewster, Managing Director of Craven Consultancy Services talks about how the programme provided a game-changing opportunity to step away from the day-to-day and focus on long-term growth.
“We support small and medium-sized businesses with HR, health and safety, and e-learning services,” Liz explains. “Many of our clients don’t need full-time in-house support — that’s where we come in as a flexible, cost-effective partner.”
After discovering Help to Grow at a business expo in Harrogate, Liz signed up through the Leeds University Business School after meeting their Small Business team there.
“I just loved the concept,” she says. “It was structured, practical, and gave me time away from the day-to-day to really work on the business. That was invaluable.”
Delivered by Experts, Designed for Results
The Help to Grow: Management Programme is a government-backed initiative designed for SME leaders, combining practical online learning, in-person teaching at leading UK business schools, and one-to-one mentoring. The Leeds-based cohort gave Liz the flexibility she needed — even attending sessions remotely while on holiday in Spain to avoid missing out.
“It was just so accessible. And being at Leeds was ideal — close enough for the face-to-face sessions, and the Business School team were brilliant throughout.”
Real Business Impact
Liz didn’t just leave with knowledge — she came away with real business results. Following the programme, Craven Consultancy successfully launched a new e-learning service, added HR as a core offer, and improved their long-term financial planning.
“It gave me the focus and tools to finally launch the e-learning side of the business, which has really taken off,” Liz shares. “And my mentor helped me home in on the numbers — how to reach my targets, not just set them.”
She also praised the structure and content of the course, especially the blend of in-person and online learning.
“All the modules were great, but the classroom-based sessions at Leeds really helped bring things to life. And the mentoring was spot on — just the kind of straight-talking, practical advice you need as a business owner.”
Expanding Networks and Local Growth
Liz also found value in the connections made through the course.
“I’ve kept in touch with several delegates. Some have even bought our courses. It’s not just about what you learn, it’s about who you meet.”
Now a keen advocate of business networking, Liz also runs the Craven Business Expo, returning for its third edition on 18th June 2025 at the Coniston Hotel & Spa. The event is set to welcome over 100 delegates and 40+ exhibitors and will raise funds for the Principal Trust Children’s Charity.
It’s all about helping businesses connect, share ideas, and grow — just like the Help to Grow programme does.
Ready to Help Your Business Grow?
With the next Leeds cohort starting on 8th September 2025, Liz’s advice to other business owners is clear:
“If you’re sitting on the fence — just do it. Yes, it takes time, but it’s time well spent. It’ll help you reflect, refocus, and grow in ways you didn’t expect.”
Find out more & register at our Business School Help to Grow page
