Fully funded surgeries launched to boost support for Tameside businesses

Tameside businesses are already reaping the benefits of a new series of fully funded business surgeries launched to strengthen growth, resilience, and innovation across the borough.

Organised by GM Business Growth Hub and supported by Tameside Council, the surgeries provide tailored, expert-led sessions offering advice on everything from business planning and funding to innovation, sales and marketing, risk management, and resilience. The first two sessions were fully booked, highlighting strong demand for hands-on business support.

The initiative complements the council’s monthly Tameside Means Business networking events, further expanding the range of opportunities available for local entrepreneurs and SMEs to access specialist guidance.

The new programme also coincides with the expansion of the Hub’s dedicated Tameside team. Charli Garner has joined as a new business advisor, working alongside Kelly Gray, who has supported Tameside businesses for the past four years. The pair will also continue coordinating other Tameside-based support in areas such as innovation and workforce development.

Kelly Gray, Tameside Stakeholder Account Manager at GM Business Growth Hub, said: “These surgeries are a must for all stages of the business cycle, from pre-start to existing businesses looking to grow. The support offered will help them quickly achieve their goals.

“The first two surgeries in the borough were fully booked, and the feedback we’ve had from businesses has been incredible. It’s a testament to the incredible businesses we have in Tameside.”

Dean Kleban, Business Growth Manager at Tameside Council, added: “Tameside Council is delighted to be supporting this initiative which will support our businesses and enable growth through 121 supports, tailored to meet their objectives.  These bespoke monthly sessions have already proved to be a success and will continue to help drive growth in the local economy.”

The surgeries are fully funded, meaning there is no cost to attend, and businesses from across the borough can book a 45-minute one-to-one session with a specialist. Advance booking is essential.

The next wave of surgeries will concentrate on helping businesses innovate, with support from the Hub’s specialist innovation team. Sessions will include introductory conversations about challenges businesses are facing, insight into available support, and guidance on adopting new tools, including the use of AI to boost productivity.

Businesses can register for upcoming sessions via Eventbrite:

• AI for Business – Wednesday 3 December 2025, 11am
• Innovating in Your Business – Thursday 4 December 2025, 9am

These new surgeries mark a significant step forward in ensuring Tameside’s business community has easy access to the specialist support needed to grow, adapt, and thrive.