Heathrow Airport has relaunched its World of Opportunity programme, which will see 12 SMEs from across the UK each receive £2,000 to help expand their customer base overseas.
The grant scheme, delivered in partnership with the Federation of Small Businesses, aims to help UK businesses get a foot in the door and boost their export journey, by providing financial support and expert guidance.
This comes as research from the Department for Business and Trade finds that UK exporters feel less confident about seizing international opportunities today than ever before.
"In every corner of the UK there are entrepreneurs who have the potential to be exporters. SMEs in this country make and do fantastic things, selling those products and services on international markets is key to economic growth and supporting jobs at home," says Thomas Woldbye, CEO at Heathrow.
"We are on a mission to get more small firms across the UK exporting right around the world," adds Gareth Thomas, the UK's small business and exports minister. "By working together, we can support small firms to grow, boost exports, cut trade barriers and unlock new opportunities through our trade strategy."
The scheme will see a judging panel of business and government experts select the most promising company from each of the UK's 12 nations and regions. Winners will receive a £2,000 grant that can be used to fund trade missions, research and training. Previous winners include Julia Brooker, an artist from Cardiff, who now sells 80% of her work overseas following a trip to Japan which was funded by the programme.
"Most small businesses are nervous about exporting, but they shouldn't be. Get help and take your product international. If a one-woman business in Cardiff can do it – anyone could,” Brooker says.
Applications close on 23 December 2024.
Businesses can find more details and apply for the grant here.