Applications are now open
- GM Business Growth Hub, backed by Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the Department for Business and Trade, have launched a new programme for businesses to expand globally
- The ‘International Scale Up’ programme starts in November with businesses from Greater Manchester set to benefit.
- The support on offer includes 1-2-1 advice, support with trade missions and a £2,500 grant.
Applications for Greater Manchester businesses to join a new fully funded scale-up programme have now opened.
‘International Scale Up’ has been launched by GM Business Growth Hub, specifically for businesses looking to expand their activity overseas. The programme is delivered in partnership with the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the Department for Business and Trade as part of the city-region's Enhanced Trade Partnership.
Starting next month, specialists from all four organisations led by the Hub will guide ambitious businesses through an accelerated programme designed to help them sell more of their products and services overseas.
Founders will learn from industry experts on how to scale their team, enter new markets and sharpen their strategy.
The progamme is open to businesses in any sector or size, as long as they have a scalable product or service ready for international markets.
They can apply for the programme via GM Business Growth Hub | International Scale Up Programme. Applications close on 24th October and the programme starts mid November 2025.
Businesses must have a trading address in Greater Manchester and have been operating for at least 3 years in the domestic UK market to be considered for the fully funded programme.
Susana Cordoba, Head of International, GM Business Growth Hub said:
“The launch of this international scale-up programme marks a major step forward for our region’s global ambitions. We are seeking to work with 50 carefully selected and export-ready businesses, who are not only ready to accelerate their international growth but will unlock wider economic opportunities for our city region. This initiative is a testament to the power of local collaboration — made possible through a strong partnership of key regional stakeholders, who share a commitment to driving innovation, competitiveness, and global success.”
Chris Fletcher, Policy Director, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce said:
“We’re proud to support the Scale Up Programme as part of the Enhanced Trade Partnership in Greater Manchester. While our city region continues to show strong economic growth, there’s still ground to cover in improving our import and export performance and unlocking the global opportunities available to our business community. The Scale Up Programme is a critical initiative to help our businesses realise their potential.”
