Peer Networks is a national initiative that will be delivered locally in England through the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) network and their respective Growth Hubs. The programme’s longer-term aims are focused on reducing the UK productivity gap by helping business leaders find practical solutions to strategic and operational challenges.

The programme will see the creation of a series of Peer Networks (cohorts) through the Growth Hub network, with each group consisting of 11 owners or managers from the SME business community participating in each network. Led by an experienced facilitator, these Peer Networks will typically meet fortnightly as part of delivering 18 hours of action learning through 2-3-hour sessions. Individual one-to-one support (coaching, mentoring, or advice) will also be provided to help to implement and manage change. Active involvement in the Peer Network will enhance the leadership capabilities, knowledge and confidence of business owners and entrepreneurs within a local region and it will help build local connectivity and strength within the SME business community.

The Authority is seeking delivery of the 3 strands of activity within the Peer Networks programme for 8 individual cohorts. Tenderers may submit bids for delivery of the following for between 1 and 8 cohorts:

Provision of Facilitators. Delivery of facilitation totalling a minimum of 18 hours to cohorts of 11 individuals

Provision of One-to-One Support. Delivery of One-to-One Support for a minimum of 3.5 hours to each participant in the facilitation cohorts