The LLEP Business Gateway Growth Hub has joined forces with Santander to offer an exclusive package of products to local export businesses.
Exporters in Leicester and Leicestershire will gain free access to Santander Navigator, a digital portal which supports the needs of export businesses, from startups through to seasoned exporters managing complex shipments.
Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) is the first LEP in the UK to offer the access to Santander Navigator.
It will enable local companies to explore opportunities in new markets around the world, find potential export partners, streamline customs processes, and overcome bureaucracy and regulatory challenges.
It also details steps needed to get products to international markets, offers insights and training for employees and new exporters, and sets out various shipping options and discounts.
Access to the portal typically costs £1,800 annually, but the Growth Hub pilot scheme allows businesses to use it for free for 12 months from their sign-up date.
It means dedicated exporting support for local firms operating in sectors including food and drink, manufacturing, retail, life sciences, and tech.
Sonia Baigent, LLEP Board Member and Chair of the LLEP Business Board, said: “Exporting is one of the key challenges facing local businesses, which is why we were keen to join forces with Santander and offer this opportunity.
“It means local businesses will have access to events and training, support with logistics, a directory of providers, and a community of others in similar situations.
“We hope that this will facilitate collaboration needed to help locally-based businesses boost their exporting offer and help them grow into international markets.”
The LLEP’s partnership with Santander means all Leicester and Leicestershire businesses can now apply for Santander Navigator’s Explore and Prepare tiers at no cost.
The Santander Navigator platform allows businesses to:
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Explore international markets that offer the best growth prospects
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Learn new skills and discover global opportunities
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Access the latest country and sector insights
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Optimise logistics and shipping
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Learn from others through a community of like-minded people and market experts
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Access Santander’s network of solution providers.
LLEP-referred businesses will also qualify for the third tier Santander Navigator Grow at a discounted rate. Companies do not need to be Santander customers to qualify for the offer.
The LLEP’s most recent Business Tracker survey showed that more than 50% of respondents involved in exporting were experiencing challenges.
The Santander partnership comes soon after the LLEP agreed a similar offer with Microsoft to help SMEs do more with digital products to improve productivity within their businesses.
