Newcastle Business School and Salford Business School have been reaccredited with the prestigious Small Business Charter for five years in recognition of their exceptional impact on small businesses and their local economy.
Newcastle Business School was praised for playing a vital role within its local economy through its emphasis on experiential learning which supports the development of SMEs and provides students with practical learning opportunities on how to run a business. The panel of assessors highlighted the role of the Business Clinic in providing students with the opportunities to work within an SME environment or support them with their plans to set up their own business.
Professor Matthew Brannan, Head of Newcastle Business School at Northumbria University, said:
"Securing Small Business Charter reaccreditation is a testament to our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses across the North East. It reflects the work of a team led by the Business School but involving colleagues from across the University. This recognition highlights the significant impact our students, staff and programmes have in driving regional economic growth by powering an inclusive economy and supporting social mobility. As we continue to navigate an evolving economic landscape, this reaccreditation strengthens our ability to deliver transformational support that makes a real difference to the region's business community. We look forward to continuing that work."
The panel of independent assessors commended Salford Business School for its important and holistic role in supporting the SME infrastructure within Greater Manchester which is underpinned by a strategic focus on SMEs which encourages staff to form strong links with businesses and external stakeholders. The panel were particularly impressed with how close relationships have been established and maintained with other business schools in the region in delivering growth programmes and supporting alumni engagement.
Professor Katy Mason, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of Salford Business School, said:
“We are delighted to have secured the five-year Small Business Charter accreditation. It recognises the commitment of our colleagues, students and partners, and the practical, inclusive approach we take to supporting SMEs to innovate, grow and build resilience as we transition to a green economy.”
Flora Hamilton, Executive Director of the Small Business Charter and CEO of the Chartered Association of Business Schools, said:
“We are delighted to reaccredit these schools with the Small Business Charter in recognition of their exceptional support to small businesses and their significant contributions to regional economic growth and local innovation. These schools exemplify the vital role business schools play in fostering growth and innovation among SMEs, as well as the important civic role they fulfil in their communities. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with them as part of the SBC network.”
The Small Business Charter is an accreditation assessed by small business leaders, to recognise business schools which are centres of excellence in supporting small businesses, student enterprise, and the local economy.
There are now 67 business schools in the UK, and two internationally in Ireland and Australia, that hold the Small Business Charter accreditation.
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