During the time of the pandemic, entrepreneurs in Greater Manchester continued to venture into the brave new world with confidence and determination. GC Business Growth Hub walks with those who dare to face the challenge with the Start Smart programme, provides one-to-one business advice and support for individuals navigating starting up a new business.  

Start Smart has helped those with the entrepreneurial spirit realise their dream and significantly contributed to the foundational economy. From March 2019 – June 2023, around 1,000 people were given support, guidance, and training, with about 500 going on to start their own business immediately after, whilst others were looking at this as a future prospect. Around 100 jobs were created, not including the business owners themselves. By helping participants start new businesses and create jobs, Start Smart has allowed the Greater Manchester economy to flourish and reduced the burden of public funding on social support.

During the event, attendees also heard from alums like Ngwafu Tansie, founder and Chef of Gwafuvegan, who specialises in cooking and delivering affordable, high-quality vegan West African food in Greater Manchester and the Northwest. She has shared her journey and how the support she received from the Business Growth Hub enabled her to grow her business. 

“What motivated me to join the programme is that this is my first business, and I really lack experience in running a business, especially in marketing and financing,” said Ngwafu. “My experience of the programme was great as it was delivered in a very flexible and accommodating way, with the programme’s course designed in a modular form. I can pick different courses that interest me and take them in the time that suits my schedule, and this is a real benefit for me since running a business can be extremely busy. “