NTU hosts Santander SME Networking Event

Nottingham Trent University welcomed a number of local SMEs, interested in hearing how working alongside the university and Santander could be beneficial for their business.

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) recently hosted the SME focused 'Finding Talent, Expertise and Funding' event in collaboration with banking giant Santander. NTU and Santander have a long standing, mutually beneficial partnership which has allowed for a number of project collaborations which help to support both students and local businesses.

This events was held to provide local SMEs with information regarding the Santander Breakthrough Support Services, as well as the business support on offer from NTU. Santander Breakthrough Support Services is about supporting businesses beyond finance, helping them to grow and prosper by working with Santander to take advantage of new opportunities and plan for the future.

The event also covered areas of expertise available to business from NTU, including employability, degree apprenticeships, research and funding.

Around twenty local SMEs attended the event, which also featured talks from businesses and students, including Roller Agency and Floor Protection Solutions, that have benefit from the support provided to them by Santander and NTU.

Daniel White began as an eight week intern at Flood Protection Solutions, and has recently been asked to continue working with them for a further eight weeks. He said, "My internship at Flood Protection Solutions has enabled me to work in an area I am knowledgeable and passionate about. My role has focused on raising the awareness of flooding and its devastating impacts, which has furthered my knowledge and allowed me to explore avenues beneficial to me professionally, and personally."

Natalie Moores, Commercial Director at Roller Agency commented, "As a growing and emerging business, the support from the University has been essential. Our placement student ended up becoming a full-time employee and has made a tangible impact on the company in such a short time."

Sasha Hallas, Assistant Project Manager for NTU's Enabling Innovation programme spoke to attendees on the day about acquiring funding for their business. She said, "NTU is proud to be supporting the local economy, and are keen to engage with more businesses to drive growth and innovation in the region. Utilising multiple funding sources, we offer a variety of free support, grants and access to expertise that can make a real difference to businesses."

If you're interesting in learning more about how we support SMEs to grow and innovate, visit our website.