Chamber urges firms to embrace tech support

East Midlands Chamber is urging businesses across Derbyshire to take advantage of the support available from a project that can help them invest in new technologies before funding comes to an end.

Digital Upscaler, which is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and delivered by the chamber, supports businesses looking to invest in new technologies to propel growth or to overcome barriers due to a lack of understanding of new technologies.

It offers businesses the knowledge, investment and capacity to scale-up by embracing new technologies.

It includes intensive one-to-one adviser support from a team of digital experts, funded consultancy to support new technology integration, an extensive programme of in-person, two-day digital workshops and peer networks.

Nearly 500 businesses across the East Midlands have so far enrolled on and engaged with the programme, which runs until the end of June.

Among those who have already benefited from the project is specialist travel agent Cruise Circle, which is based at Bolsover and run by husband and wife team Jason Daniels and Danielle Nemeth.

A Digital Upscaler grant and expert digital adviser support have enabled them to completely overhaul their legacy systems, resulting in the integration of data collection and data processing modules and customer relationship management.

Paul Humphreys, head of scale-up services at East Midlands Chamber, said: “Time and again, we’re told the chamber’s ‘deep dive’ workshops offer hugely practical advice that can be implemented immediately when staff are back at their desks.

“Beyond our extensive programme of workshops – which are fully-subsidised for staff in businesses across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire – we’re offering one-to-one support from our digital advisers to businesses considered to be high growth.

“Those showing the best growth potential will be invited to apply for a consultancy award.

“By getting to know a business, we can help its senior management team improve their knowledge when choosing a solution, developer or system provider, and make informed and considered decisions about technology investments.

“Our ultimate aim is to ensure their digital solutions meet the desired performance and functionality needed for future growth.”

For more information on the Digital Upscaler project, including a full list of events, visit here.