Help is at hand for businesses in Devon, Somerset, Plymouth and Torbay looking for digital support.
The Heart of the South West Growth Hub’s fully funded Digital Link service has helped almost 500 SMEs in the region develop their digital business strategies for free, enabling their businesses to grow and become more successful. A further 95 businesses have benefitted from a one-to-one Digital Business review with one of the Growth Hub’s Digital Business Advisers.
As part of the review, businesses are asked questions about their digital technology usage. This ‘Digital Adoption Survey’ has revealed some interesting insights into the use of digital technology by SMEs in Devon and Somerset. 95% of the businesses surveyed agreed that digital technology was important or very important for the long-term success and sustainability of their business. However, businesses lack awareness about available digital solutions, with over 70% citing this as one of their main challenges in adopting digital technology.
To help businesses on their digital journey, the advisers can take a deep dive into the current challenges facing a business, review their future plans and point them towards the best digital strategies to fast-track their growth.
David Hynd, Programme and Partnership Manager for the Heart of the South West Growth Hub, said: “In today’s digital era, navigating the online world is crucial for the success of any small business. Our Digital Link service is here to simplify the digital landscape for you. We’re committed to helping Devon and Somerset businesses make the most of the digital opportunities, no matter where you’re starting from.”
Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, said:
“It’s crucial that small businesses incorporate digital technology into their business plans these days and the ‘Digital Adoption’ survey results highlight that the majority admit to needing help. This Digital Link service offered by the Heart of the South West Growth Hub is a perfect way to get the support you need, free of charge. I would urge all SMEs to take up the opportunity of a review to see how it can help their business to grow.”
Businesses interested in booking a free one-to-one business review with a Digital Business Adviser can do so via the Heart of the South West Growth Hub website.