Knowledge Transfer International Ltd

What is LEAD?

If you run a good business but want to turn it into a great business, KTI’s LEAD programme could be for you. Supported and part-funded by the NWDA LEAD is a leadership and business development programme for owners and senior managers of small businesses across the Northwest. Unlike most management development courses LEAD has been specifically developed to meet the needs of small businesses leaders.

LEAD doesn’t just focus on business development but recognises that the key factor in any small business is YOU! By supporting and developing you as a leader LEAD equips you with the tools and confidence to make the decisions that will help your business thrive.

LEAD was developed at Lancaster University and has already helped over 150 businesses across the region. 90% of past delegates report an average yearly turnover increase of £200,000 and, crucially, that their turnover is more profitable.

The team at KTI all run their own small businesses so our approach is practical and with a deep understanding of the needs, aspirations, and issues faced by small businesses. Key members of our team worked on the original LEAD programme so we are ideally placed to guide and assist you on your LEAD journey. KTI can offer what no one else can – a proven track record of delivering LEAD and the pragmatic and practical approach of small business owners.

Every business is different - we can't tell you how to run yours. LEAD will, however, give you tools, ideas and support to help you and your team develop your own business in the way that's right for you.

What does LEAD look like?

LEAD is a 10 month programme. Each intake has a maximum capacity of 25. Meeting two or three times a month you will really get to know your LEAD colleagues who will form an unrivalled network of like-minded individuals.

The elements of LEAD are an innovative and engaging combination developed to tackle the needs of small business leaders. Different people learn in different ways. KTI's LEAD programme offers a carefully selected mix of the thought-provoking, the challenging, the inspiring and the practical to develop your skills as a leader and your business.

People running small businesses don’t necessarily want to be told how to do something by someone who has never left the classroom. For this reason LEAD features a range of carefully chosen development methods:

• An overnight experiential event
• Leadership and business development masterclasses
• One-to-one coaching
• Action learning sets
• Business shadowing and exchanges
• A dedicated online forum
• A series of learning and reflection days

Click on each element for more details.

Who is LEAD for?

LEAD is aimed at owners or senior managers of businesses with up to 25 employees. We welcome applications from business located anywhere in the Northwest region. The majority of the cost of participating on this high-value programme is covered by the NWDA. The cost to delegates is £2000 for the whole package. Train to Gain’s leadership and management fund may be able to reduce the actual outlay for eligible businesses to £1000.

Where is LEAD happening?

KTI is delivering LEAD from three venues:

• The Heath, Runcorn
• Salford Innovation Forum
• The Foresight Centre, Liverpool

Our next ‘cohort’ of 25 will begin at The Heath, Runcorn on Monday 21 June 2010. Places are limited and already being booked. This is a very popular programme so don’t delay. We are running a series of preview sessions to explain more about LEAD. To find out more use our contact form, phone us, or visit the Businesslink website www.businesslinknw.co.uk/lead and select KTI from the drop-down menu.

Take a look at the LEAD brochure (PDF Format, 259 Kb) for more information.