News
Regional High Growth SMEs
The West Midlands’ flagship High Growth Accelerator programme has entered its second year, following a successful pilot that saw 50 local SMEs generate over £4 million in new investment and project a combined £15 million uplift in turnover. Backed by Mayor Richard Parker and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and delivered by consultancy firm Gateley Global, the initiative has become a springboard for high potential companies in sectors from tech to manufacturing.
Why Are So Many Funders Closing Their Doors?
Across the UK, the heartbeat of social change is faltering not because the passion has gone, but because the funding is. In recent months, a rising number of major funders have paused their grant programmes or exited entirely, leaving charities and social enterprises wondering what the future holds.
West Midlands Business Festival 2025
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A United Midlands: Mayors Join Forces to Drive Economic Growth and Opportunity
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Why “Reimagine Your Business” is a Must Attend Workshop for SMEs in Birmingham
The “Reimagine Your Business” workshop, hosted by iSE and Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet), offers SMEs, social enterprises, and non-profits in the West Midlands a free, interactive session to explore digital tools, design thinking, and AI to boost business growth and efficiency. The event, taking place on 6th March, 2025, at the NatWest Accelerator Hub in Birmingham.
Powering Equality: IWD 2025
On 25th February 2025, iSE will take the stage at the International Women’s Day Conference & Exhibition at Millennium Point, Birmingham. Hosting a panel of inspirational women who are breaking barriers and driving measurable social impact. This event celebrates achievements, whilst amplifying diverse voices for a more inclusive future.
The Diabetes Crisis No One Talks About… Until It’s Too Late!
The Initiative for Social Entrepreneurs (ISE) is launching the Women’s Diabetes Wellbeing Programme to address the urgent rise in Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes in underserved communities. With a focus on health education, lifestyle support, and economic empowerment, this initiative aims to equip women with the knowledge and tools to reduce their risk and lead healthier lives.
West Midlands Upskills 43,000 People as Mayor Prioritises Youth Employment and Future Industries
Over 43,000 people have received vital job training in the West Midlands, thanks to a regional focus on emerging sectors like digital, AI, and sustainability. This effort, spearheaded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and Mayor Richard Parker, is a key step toward addressing skills shortages and youth unemployment.
The Missing Piece to Your Business Success: Funding
Are you ready to push your business potential but feel stuck when it comes to funding? This event, hosted by iSE and partners: Oxford Innovation, Business Growth West Midlands, Access 2 Finance and Funders Collective can help provide expert tools, connections, and confidence to grow.
The Health Sector is Struggling and Here’s How You Can Help Fix It
The health sector faces growing challenges, but the Inclusive Health Programme offers a beacon of hope for health, wellbeing and social care entrepreneurs ready to make a difference. With grants of up to £10,000, business mentoring, and expert support, this initiative uplifts innovators to create solutions that change lives. While Cohort 1 applications are closed, you can join the waitlist for Cohort 2 and be a part of a growing healthcare sector. This programme is delivered by ISE, in partnership with Health innovation West Midlands and Living Well Consortium.
Want to Grow Your Business and Save the Planet? Join the Green Revolution!
Discover green economy opportunities with The Green Economy Series, a fully funded programme for West Midlands businesses. Hosted at Tyseley Energy Park, it offers expert-led workshops, networking, and actionable strategies to help your business thrive sustainably. Don’t miss this chance to grow your network and embrace greener practices!