London’s Small Biz Bash: Mayor Khan Unveils a Game‑Changing Support Hub
Turn up the volume, London! Mayor Sadiq Khan just dropped a fresh £8.7 million bombshell that’s all about giving the city’s one‑million‑plus small businesses the boost they’ve been begging for.
What’s on the Menu?
Enter Grow London Local (GLL), the brainchild of London & Partners, and the capital’s new “one‑stop shop” for entrepreneurs. This isn’t a run‑of‑the‑mill grant program; it’s a full‑spectrum helpdesk that mixes face‑to‑face chats with slick online tools.
- 24 on‑the‑ground advisors who travel the boroughs to find the hidden champions and the hustlers who feel stuck.
- From business‑planning kits and sales‑boost secrets to network‑swinging socials, they’ve got the toolbox.
- And later this year, a sweet skills‑training plunge courtesy of the Mayor’s Adult Education Budget. Think upskilling your team while you’re at it!
Why This Is a Big Deal
The scheme lives up to the Mayor’s 2021 pledge: a single portal that pulls together all the scattered support packages into one tidy package. London & Partners brings their know‑how, ensuring each business gets the right resources at the right time.
Since its pilot launch in November 2023, GLL has already ticked-off 811 businesses. They’ve got a mix of online and face‑to‑face wins, covering every borough. The ambition? 12 000 small businesses by March 2025.
Meet the Real‑Deal Heroes
Today, Khan stepped through Camden Lock Market, chatting with the fresh‑out support recipients. He met:
- Let’s Jam – the charming craft jewellers who’re turning everyday pieces into art.
- Massive International London – the reggae veterans whose vinyl hasn’t faded, and their stores are as vibrant as the music.
Mayor Khan’s Pitch
“The capital’s one million small businesses are the true backbone of our economy,” Khan declared. “They keep life moving, yet they’re often left on the sidelines when it comes to government help, even though they’re hustling on razor‑thin margins.”
His enthusiasm is matched by his commitment: “Grow London Local is all about giving owners the skills, connections, and confidence to not just survive but thrive. I’m proud to be London’s most pro‑business mayor, and supporting these businesses is key to building a brighter, richer London.”
CEO Spotlight
Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners, added a personal touch:
“Being an entrepreneur can feel like sailing solo. There’s a ton of support out there, but too often London business owners aren’t tapping into what they’re owed,” she said.
“Grow London Local flips that—your local advisor will hand you a plug for the exact help you need, whether that’s marketing, mentorship, finance advice, or training for your crew.”
How to Stay in the Loop
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