Welsh ICE will be delivering a 4-month programme in the upper Rhondda and Cynon to support businesses in that crucial stage a couple of years after start-up. This is often the stage businesses really struggle with planning what’s next and this intensive support programme will equip local SMEs with the tools and strategies to overcome challenges, ensuring they can adapt, grow, and thrive in a changing economic landscape.
Businesses that take part will also be encouraged to explore new technologies, diversify their offerings, and implement innovative practices to stay competitive and sustainable.
There will also be a focus on supporting them to secure commercial premises on their local high street(s), further contributing to the growth of the local economy and consider and explore opportunity to create new job opportunities and safeguard existing ones.
“Pen y Cymoedd has consistently supported a variety of high-quality, long-term jobs and identified local businesses’ requirements, enabling them to expand and diversify. Although we are proud of the businesses we have assisted with their initial expenses, we also understand that small business owners may encounter difficulties when a few years pass and encounter obstacles to expansion. This is an innovative model using workshops, mentoring, hackathons and direct support and we are excited to see how this programme works in area and what the outcomes are for those businesses that they support” – Kate Breeze, Executive Director, Pen y Cymoedd.
“This programme is all about empowering local businesses at a critical stage in their journey. With targeted and personalised support, we’ll help them navigate challenges, embrace innovation, and ultimately build a foundation for sustainable growth. By working directly with businesses in northern Rhondda Cynon Taf, we can ensure they’re not just surviving, but thriving in the long term.” – Tomas Phillips, Head of Commercial Development, Welsh ICE
The Innovation Centre for Enterprise in Wales Limited, established in 2012 by Anthony Record OBE, addressed the critical need for adequate support for early-stage entrepreneurs in Wales. The establishment of an outreach team in 2019 marked a significant milestone in Welsh ICE’s evolution. This development enabled the organisation to extend its successful model beyond Caerphilly, fostering a deeper and more expansive entrepreneurial ecosystem across various Welsh communities. By building on its proven success, Welsh ICE aims to support and nurture entrepreneurship throughout Wales, driving economic growth and innovation.