We are pleased to announce the reaccreditation of three outstanding business schools, each having demonstrated their exceptional impact on small businesses and their local economies.
The schools are:
University of Gloucestershire, School of Business, Computing and Social Science
University of Leicester, School of Business
Brighton School of Business and Law
Each school underwent a rigorous assessment process conducted by an independent panel - including small business leaders, showcasing their expertise in delivering support for SMEs, student entrepreneurship, and local economic growth.
University of Gloucestershire School of Business, Computing and Social Science
Reaccredited for 3 years, the University of Gloucestershire’s School of Business, Computing and Social Science impressed the panel with the school’s collaborative culture and its commitment to student enterprise and entrepreneurship. The panel commended the school’s approach and its extensive work through The Growth Hub, which ensures SMEs are connected to a wide range of tailored activities, events, and projects.
Professor Cathia Jenainati, Head of the University’s School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences, said:
“We’re extremely proud to have been reaccredited for three more years by the Small Business Charter because it validates our approach to promoting student enterprise and supporting small businesses and the regional economy. Our partnerships within the business community contribute to the prosperity of our region through the range of services provided by the Growth Hub and by adapting our course portfolio to meet the skills and recruitment needs of employers.”
University of Leicester School of Business (ULSB)
The University of Leicester School of Business exceeded expectations during its reassessment. The panel noted that the breadth and impact of ULSB on SMEs, the community, and its students are a credit to the school and broader university. It’s evident that ULSB plays an important and holistic role in supporting the SME ecosystem within Leicestershire.
Professor Daniel Ladley, Head of College and Executive Dean of the University of Leicester School of Business, said:
“I am proud that University of Leicester School of Business (ULSB), have maintained our SBC accreditation for a further five years. This is a testament to the continued impact our university has on businesses, students and the community. We have seen, through initiatives such as Help to Grow: Management and our Growth Accelerator for Social Entrepreneurs programme, the valued role that we have in the business ecosystem and the impact on SMEs and social enterprises. As our mission states, ‘Through inspirational business education and world-leading research, we seek to change society for the better’ and this is clearly demonstrated by the continuation of our SBC accreditation. We look forward to continuing to work with partners to deliver lasting impact in our regional economy.”
Brighton School of Business and Law
Brighton School of Business and Law stood out for its impressive integration of academic learning with real-world applications. Its innovative approach, including diverse industry collaborations and community-focused initiatives, was commended by assessors.
Dr. Stefan Speckesser, Associate Dean of the School of Business and Law at UoB: “The University and its School of Business and Law have close links to our local business community and SMEs – as partners in research and knowledge exchange, with the Help to Grow: Management Programme, with student placements, and many more. We are delighted to renew the Small Business Charter award for another five years in recognition of all the work by our academics, with and for SMEs. We look forward to fostering greater collaboration over the years to come, to support SME innovation and growth with our talented students and staff, and through joint projects creating innovation or new skills, for the benefit of our local economy.”
Flora Hamilton, Executive Director of the Small Business Charter and Chief Executive of the Chartered Association of Business Schools, said:
“We would like to congratulate these business schools for successfully retaining their accreditations. These schools have consistently demonstrated their commitment to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. Their ongoing contributions to strengthening entrepreneurship and driving economic growth in their communities are truly commendable. We look forward to continuing our partnership with these exceptional institutions to further strengthen the SME ecosystem and inspire the next generation of business leaders.”