Greater Manchester Launches Third Cohort of International Scale Up Programme to Boost Export Growth

Greater Manchester’s International Scale Up Programme has commenced applications for its third cohort, aiming to support local businesses in scaling their operations across international markets. The initiative is a collaborative effort between GM Business Growth Hub, the Department for Business and Trade, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).

The fully funded programme offers a comprehensive package of expert-led workshops and practical guidance covering critical areas such as market entry strategies, regulatory compliance, logistics, pricing models, and intellectual property protection. Participating businesses also receive tailored one-to-one mentoring and introductions to international partners, facilitating the translation of export plans into measurable outcomes.

Cohort 3 introduces an enhanced support model, extending funded activities and specialist advice for up to 12 months. This longer-term engagement provides companies with the necessary time and flexibility to embed international strategies and scale sustainably.

Several Greater Manchester companies have already benefited from the programme. Masumi Headwear, a Manchester-based firm specializing in medical hair loss solutions, attributes approximately 40% of its turnover to overseas markets, including Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. Founder Ali Nowroozi praised the programme’s impact, stating, “Your team’s guidance has helped us refine our strategy and overcome barriers to entry in new territories. We would 100% recommend the Hub to any business looking to grow.”

Content Chemistry, a video and animation studio based in Cheadle Hulme focusing on healthcare and technical storytelling, has also expanded its international footprint, with the US market now accounting for 33% of its revenue. Director Garry Paton described discovering the programme as “serendipitous,” highlighting the value of expert support, peer networks, and strategic tools in strengthening their global approach.

Susana Córdoba, Head of International at GM Business Growth Hub, emphasized the programme’s progression: “Across the first two cohorts, we’ve seen businesses move from ambition to action, identifying new markets, building international connections and developing the confidence to grow globally. What’s particularly encouraging is the shift from planning to delivery, with companies starting to embed internationalisation into their long-term growth strategies.”

She added, “Cohort 3 builds on that momentum. With enhanced support and a strong partnership behind it, the programme is helping businesses not only access global opportunities, but do so in a way that is practical, sustainable and commercially focused.”

Subrahmaniam Krishnan-Harihara, Director of Business Policy at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, noted the practical challenges companies face when entering new markets. “What we see time and again is that businesses often face practical barriers when entering new markets, from documentation and compliance to navigating unfamiliar processes. This programme addresses those challenges head-on, giving businesses access to the right expertise at the right time,” he said.

Krishnan-Harihara further explained, “It is not just about opening doors to international markets but making sure businesses are fully prepared to succeed once they get there.”

Applications for the third cohort are now open, with places limited to a maximum of 25 businesses. The programme continues to provide a vital platform for Greater Manchester companies seeking to expand their global reach with expert guidance and sustained support.