In the rapidly evolving economic landscape of the United Kingdom, local enterprises in Hull and East Yorkshire face a unique set of challenges and opportunities. From navigating post-Brexit trade to embracing the transition to Net Zero, the path to scaling a business is complex. Enter the HEY Growth Hub (Hull and East Yorkshire Growth Hub)—a strategic architect for regional economic development and a vital "one-stop-shop" for ambitious organizations.
Whether you are a pre-start entrepreneur or an established manufacturing firm in the Humber estuary, understanding how to leverage this government-backed initiative can be the difference between stagnation and global competitiveness.
What is the HEY Growth Hub?
The HEY Growth Hub is a central pillar of the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority. Established in its current form on April 1, 2021, it serves as the successor to the Humber LEP, providing free, impartial, and expert advice to businesses across the region.
Operating from its headquarters at Two Humber Quays in Hull, the Hub connects local talent with structural support, funding streams, and specialized training. Its mission is simple: to simplify the business support landscape and drive sustainable economic growth.
The Core Value Proposition: Personalized Business Diagnostics
Unlike generic online resources, the HEY Growth Hub’s value is built on personalized engagement. Every eligible business is assigned a dedicated advisor. This relationship begins with a comprehensive "business health check" or diagnostic.
Why the Diagnostic Matters:
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Identifying Barriers: Advisors pinpoint specific hurdles, such as skills gaps, outdated digital infrastructure, or lack of capital.
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Strategic Roadmapping: Instead of a "one-size-fits-all" approach, you receive a tailored action plan.
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Direct Signposting: The Hub bridges the gap between public sector funding (like the UK Shared Prosperity Fund) and private sector ambition.
Key Services and Specialized Support Streams
1. 1-to-1 Business Advising and Account Management
Navigating the various departments of local and national government can be daunting. The Hub’s expert account managers act as your internal advocate, ensuring you don't miss out on regional opportunities. This service is essential for SME growth strategy and long-term workforce development planning.
2. Made Smarter: Digital Transformation for Manufacturers
For the manufacturing heartlands of the Humber, the HEY Made Smarter program is a game-changer. This initiative helps traditional firms transition into "Industry 4.0" by adopting:
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Industrial Digital Technologies (IDT).
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Robotics and process automation.
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Big data and analytics.
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Match-funded grants of up to £20,000 for hardware and software implementation.
3. Access to Finance and Grant Funding Signposting
One of the most frequent queries received by the Hub relates to business funding in Hull. While the Hub itself is a publicly funded service (meaning its advice is free), it acts as a gatekeeper to various grants, including:
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UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF): Targeted investment to increase life chances and support local businesses.
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Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF): Capital grants specifically for small businesses in rural East Yorkshire.
4. Export Support and International Trade
Hull’s status as a port city makes international trade a natural avenue for growth. Through the Export Partnership Manager and connections with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the Hub helps businesses:
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Identify new global markets.
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Understand customs regulations and documentation.
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Access the Internationalisation Fund for English businesses.
5. Skills Bootcamps and Workforce Development
Growth is impossible without the right people. The HEY Careers Hub and regional Skills Bootcamps provide intensive, flexible training courses designed to upskill employees in high-demand areas like digital marketing, green energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Driving the Net Zero Agenda
Hull and East Yorkshire are at the forefront of the UK’s green industrial revolution. The HEY Growth Hub plays a critical role in helping local firms contribute to Net Zero and sustainability goals. Advisors help businesses conduct energy audits, reduce carbon footprints, and pivot toward circular economy business models.
Why Your Business Should Engage Today
With 20,000+ businesses in the region, the competition for resources is high. Engaging with the Growth Hub provides:
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Professional Networking: Access to curated events and workshops (e.g., Humber Business Week).
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Resource Directory: A curated list of vetted suppliers and support organizations.
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Free Business Health Checks: A zero-cost way to validate your current strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the support from HEY Growth Hub really free?
Yes. As a government-backed initiative supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, all advisory services, diagnostics, and signposting provided by the HEY Growth Hub are free for eligible businesses in the region.
2. Which areas does the Growth Hub cover?
The Hub serves the entire Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire catchment area, including major settlements like Hull, Beverley, Bridlington, Goole, and Driffield.
3. Can I get a grant to start a new business?
The HEY Start-ups service is specifically designed for new ventures. While direct "start-up grants" vary by current funding cycles, the Hub provides essential help with business planning and identifies available small-scale seed funding.
4. What is the 'Made Smarter' program?
Made Smarter is a specialized program for SME manufacturers. it provides digital technology advice and match-funded grants (up to £20k) to help modernize production processes through automation and data.
5. How do I contact a business advisor?
You can call the main helpdesk at 01482 485260 or email growthhub@hullandeastyorkshire.gov.uk to book an initial diagnostic session.
6. Does the Hub help with recruitment?
Yes. Through the HEY Workforce and Careers Hub, they offer guidance on apprenticeships, the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer, and workforce development planning to help you find and retain talent.
7. Can the Hub help me with exporting after Brexit?
Absolutely. They work closely with the Department for Business and Trade to provide specialist export support, helping you navigate new regulations and identify international market opportunities.
8. What kind of networking events do they host?
The Hub organizes and supports various events, from sector-specific workshops (like manufacturing innovation) to large-scale regional celebrations like Humber Business Week.
9. Are there any restrictions on the size of business that can get help?
While the Hub primarily focuses on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs), they offer information and signposting for businesses of all sizes, including micro-businesses and large employers.
10. Where is the HEY Growth Hub located?
The physical headquarters is at Two Humber Quays, Wellington Street West, Hull, HU1 2BN, near the Hull Marina.
Building a Resilient Future
The HEY Growth Hub is more than just an advice center; it is a catalyst for innovation. By bridging the gap between national policy and local implementation, it ensures that the industrial and creative talents of Hull and East Yorkshire have the structural support necessary to compete on a global stage.
If you are ready to scale, innovate, or simply need a fresh perspective on your business plan, contact the Hub today and take the first step toward your next stage of growth.
Contact Information:
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Phone: 01482 485260
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Website: heygrowthhub.com
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Address: Two Humber Quays, Wellington Street West, Hull, HU1 2BN