BUSINESSES in Bolton are being invited to join an online network to help with their recovery from the pandemic recovery.

Peer Networks unites small groups of up to 11 owners, senior managers, and directors to address their challenges, devise solutions, and share their expertise and experience in structured sessions.

The programme also provides access to one-to-one mentoring.

The network is aimed at firms in the hospitality, leisure and tourism, and digital, creative and tech sectors.

More than 300 SMEs in Greater Manchester have already taken part.

Funded by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, the programme is being delivered by GC Business Growth Hub, part of The Growth Company.

The groups selected for each network are specifically chosen to ensure business leaders are well matched and coming together in a non-competitive environment, where they can share ideas, contacts and advice, and get valuable feedback.

All topics discussed in the sessions are selected by the individuals in the group.

Dawn Duggan, Head of People, Skills & Talent at GC Business Growth Hub, said: “At such a challenging time for SMEs, being able to dedicate a few hours each month to speak openly about your challenges and opportunities with similar businesses is priceless.

“We sometimes assume we can resolve our problems ourselves, but it’s extremely useful to get an outside perspective from experienced peers with professional facilitators.

“They will support you and your group of fellow business leaders, as you work together to problem solve and share ideas to create tangible solutions in a confidential setting.”

To find out more about Peer Networks, or to register an interest in joining, visit www.peernetworks.co.uk or contact Jessica Pomfret at GC Business Growth Hub to find out more Jessica.Pomfret@growthco.uk.

There is no cost to joining for people who take part.

Businesses looking to access specialist support can visit www.businessgrowthhub.com for more information about the organisation’s extensive range of services.

This and other GC Business Growth Hub projects are part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the GM Business Growth Hub project designed to help ambitious SME businesses achieve growth and increase employment in Greater Manchester.

The Hub is also supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Greater Manchester local authorities.