COMPANIES in East Lancashire could be set to benefit from free business support packages to help then adapt to the post coronavirus environment.

The packages, part of £1.3billion’s worth of funding announced by chancellor Rishi Sunak in April, will help fund small and medium sized enterprises launch new products and services and to explore new innovative business practices.

The scheme is funded by the government agency Innovate UK and run by business support provider RTC North which will offer businesses up to 12 days of free coaching.

RTC North business development manager Thierry Delange said: “In this current climate, companies need now more than ever, a friendly face to turn to for practical advice and support.

“Our experienced advisors act to provide an external perspective and structured approach to help senior management to successfully navigate the disruptive environment and achieve growth and scaling.”

The RTC employs over 80 people at offices in the North West, North East and Yorkshire, from where it works to deliver a mix of innovation and business growth programmes, designed to help businesses to innovate, compete and grow.

These RTC staff members hope to help hundreds of companies around the North of England and says it will be an ideal option for firms which have, or are developing, revolutionary products and need help to progress them or enter new markets; or those facing a decline in sales due to market trends or new technologies and which need help to change and adapt.

Meanwhile, the RTC will work on areas such as Identifying and securing new clients, accessing new markets, funding opportunities, building resilience, R&D and innovation capacity, reviewing business models, planning for growth and developing supply chains.

Mr Delange said: “Ultimately, our advisors are here to help ambitious businesses do better, develop better products leading to increased sales.

“That’s what innovation is about.”

For more information, visit: https://www.rtcnorth.co.uk/.