The East Midlands Chamber has launched an Export Accelerator initiative, aimed at helping businesses in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire explore international markets. The project, which has already seen 227 companies register since its spring debut, is designed to assist businesses in overcoming the complexities of global trade, from research to product launches abroad.

Funded by a £454,000 contribution from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme provides expert consultancy, training, and grants for businesses. The initiative includes up to £8,000 in grant funding to cover the cost of services like specialist consultancy, attending overseas trade shows, and equipment. Additionally, businesses can apply for a £2,000 bursary to attend international trade training courses, including the BCC-Accredited International Trade Operations and Procedures qualification.

Participants also gain access to the newly formed East Midlands International Trade Network, offering bi-monthly forums, expert support, and opportunities for businesses to collaborate and share insights. The first two forums will take place in Nottingham and Bolsover in late September.

The initiative comes at a time when overseas trade is facing increasing challenges, with a reported 10% decrease in overseas sales and a 3% drop in orders, according to the Chamber’s latest economic survey. As trade costs and paperwork escalate, the Export Accelerator offers crucial support to businesses looking to expand beyond the UK.

To sign up, businesses can complete a Registration Form and receive guidance from an Export Accelerator adviser. The Chamber also lists its international trade training courses on its website, where eligible businesses can apply for funding to attend.

The Bank of England’s recent decision to reduce interest rates by 0.25% to 4% is unlikely to significantly ease the challenges faced by businesses, according to the East Midlands Chamber. The ongoing pressure of high operational costs, staffing expenses due to increased National Insurance contributions, and inflation persist as major obstacles for many companies.

Despite the interest rate reduction providing some relief for businesses seeking to borrow, many in the region remain concerned about future tax hikes. A significant number of businesses have indicated in the East Midlands Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey that they expect declining profitability in the near future. Additionally, almost 40% of companies anticipate raising their prices to manage the increasing cost burdens.

The Chamber notes that while some government initiatives, such as the strategy addressing late supplier payments, are positive, broader concerns like corporate tax rates and inflation require further action. With the Autumn Budget approaching, the need for greater government support and clarity on tax policies has become more urgent for businesses striving to remain competitive.

The UK construction industry experienced its sharpest contraction in over five years during July, marking a continued decline across all major sectors. The S&P Global UK construction purchasing managers’ index (PMI) dropped to 44.3 from 48.8 in June, signalling a significant slowdown in activity. Any reading below 50 indicates a contraction in the sector.

The downturn was driven by a slump in housebuilding, which had briefly shown signs of recovery in June, as well as weaker performance across civil engineering and commercial construction. The survey highlighted that civil engineering experienced the largest decline, particularly with public-sector projects seeing reduced activity.

Firms across the industry faced delays on job sites, lower volumes of new work, and a lack of confidence from consumers. The latest figures also revealed a continued decrease in employment, marking the seventh consecutive month of job losses. Many construction businesses are now freezing recruitment and cutting back on material purchases as they prepare for a difficult outlook.

Despite these challenges, analysts expect some recovery in the coming months. Potential interest rate cuts from the Bank of England could ease borrowing costs, and government investments are expected to help stabilise the market.

North Northamptonshire Council has launched a new initiative to help local businesses understand and reduce their energy use and environmental impact. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the programme will support organisations to design their own decarbonisation plans and access grants that will help them shift to more sustainable practices and save money. North Northamptonshire Council has appointed Urban Foresight, a strategic innovation consultancy, to deliver the programme. Participating organisations will receive free access to a user-friendly platform to measure their carbon footprint and develop a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP). The programme aims to support 50 businesses and 25 community groups to complete carbon footprint assessments, and 20 businesses and 15 community groups to progress to CRPs aligned with the latest public procurement requirements, enhancing their ability to compete for private and public sector contracts and providing a pathway to decarbonisation. A structured series of workshops will also be delivered to build capacity and ensure that CRPs are not only developed but are also actionable. Cllr Ken Harrington, the council’s executive member for assets, waste and environmental services, said: “With more and more businesses looking at carbon reduction measures, it is important that we use the funds available to us to support them. “Schemes like this encourage businesses to look to the future, think about their carbon footprint and complements wider environmental work in North Northants.”

With the nomination deadline (Friday 15th August) drawing nearer for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, local leaders are encouraging businesses to enter. The 10th annual celebration of the property and construction industry is the perfect way for firms to raise their profile, reward teams, spotlight successes and promote the work they are completing, all while reaching Business Link Magazine’s audience of over 60,000 business readers and connecting with respected professionals. It’s an opportunity to showcase exceptional new commercial and residential developments, those demonstrating a leading position in sustainability and design excellence; gain recognition as outstanding developers, architects, contractors, and agents, as well as for significant deals; and ensure efforts in corporate social responsibility are rewarded, from eco initiatives to charity work, to social value schemes. Making a nomination is completely free – with finalists also winning free tickets to the awards ceremony.

See what local leaders had to say below:

Megan Powell Vreeswijk, Chief Executive of Marketing Nottingham & Nottinghamshire, said: “For 10 years, the East Midlands Bricks Awards has helped to champion businesses that define our region through innovation, ambition, and resilience in the built environment sector. “These businesses help to shape our communities and drive economic growth across Nottingham & Nottinghamshire. I encourage organisations across Nottinghamshire and the wider East Midlands to enter the Bricks Awards and showcase the incredible work happening here – let’s put our region firmly on the map.”

Mike Denby, Director for Inward Investment and Place at Invest In Leicester, said: “The East Midlands Bricks Awards are a great way to highlight the innovation and high standards of Leicester and Leicestershire’s construction industry, a sector that we are incredibly proud of. “That’s why Invest in Leicester is encouraging all our partners and businesses to get involved, as celebrating these achievements will motivate future projects that will ultimately benefit our residents and the wider economy.” Cllr Liam Kelly, Executive Member for Growth, Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Lincolnshire’s property and construction sectors have a real impact on communities across the county, from vital infrastructure schemes to extra care housing developments – all while supporting thousands of jobs across the local economy. There’s a lot to be proud of, and I hope that Lincolnshire’s fantastic businesses step forward to get the recognition they deserve at this year’s East Midlands Bricks Awards.”

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “Property and construction are significant drivers of growth and despite having had to overcome tough challenges like higher National Insurance contributions or the skills shortage making recruitment hard, the East Midlands can be proud of the impressive scale of modernisation to our towns and cities. “Whether Nottingham’s Island Quarter, Derby’s Castleward Urban Village, Leicester’s Waterside or Ashton Green projects, you don’t have to look far to see progress. The Bricks Awards showcase the people and firms that are to thank for shaping how our urban spaces and architecture will be seen for future generations and it’s right we recognise that work.”

John Forkin, Managing Director at Marketing Derby, said: “This year, in particular, Derby has seen some major regeneration projects come to fruition, including Vaillant Live and Derby Market Hall – and later this year, we will see the opening of the University of Derby’s Cavendish Building, which will be the new home of its Business School. “There is so much great work going on in the built environment and we would really encourage companies to consider applying to these awards.” Nottinghamshire County Councillor, James Walker-Gurley, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, said: “The property and construction industry is vital to our local economy and one to be proud of in Nottinghamshire and the region. “The industry generates skilled jobs, investment and contract opportunities for the supply chain. And with the STEP fusion prototype powerplant due to be built right here in our county, this will bring many more lucrative opportunities. “So I would encourage everyone to get nominating for these awards and help celebrate this industry.”

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, and keynote speaker at this year’s East Midlands Bricks Awards, said: “2025 is a landmark year for Derby. We’re not just planning, we’re actively building a vibrant and welcoming city for everyone to enjoy. This vision has been brought to life thanks to the crucial partnerships with our talented development partners. “The East Midlands Bricks Awards is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the exceptional skills and expertise within our region’s property and construction sector, and I’m very excited to see their achievements recognised.” To nominate your (or another) business/development for the East Midlands Bricks Awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page. Entry is free – with finalists also winning free tickets to the awards ceremony. Categories include:

• Contractor of the Year
• Developer of the Year
• Architects of the Year
• Most Active Agent
• Deal of the Year
• Residential Development of the Year
• Sustainable Development of the Year
• Commercial Development of the Year
• Excellence in Design
• Responsible Business of the Year
• Overall Winner

All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

New for this year, all entrants will also have the chance to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements. Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 2nd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm) at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region over nibbles and complimentary drinks. Attendees will additionally hear from keynote speaker Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                                          

To be held at: