The High Streets Support and Innovation programme continues to be delivered across Surrey this spring. Nearly 140 businesses have registered so far – and online events are now available.
The Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme is open to a wide range of businesses. This includes independent retailers, start-ups, market traders, charities and social enterprises.
It helps high street businesses in winning new customers, boosting sales and creating growth as part of wider efforts to strengthen and futureproof centres of the community.
It’s funded by Surrey County Council’s Economic Growth Fund and delivered by specialists Smarter Society and The Retail Group. It includes free practical workshops, online resources and one-on-one tailored support.
There is also a focus on 22 high streets in all 11 of the county’s district and borough areas, with detailed workshops developed to help retailers attract more customers, boost footfall, improve visibility and increase customer spend.
Business can register for the support directly via the Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme enrolment form.
What is the High Streets Support scheme?
The High Streets Support scheme is developed in collaboration with economic development teams from district and councils. Representatives from Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) across Surrey have also been involved.
It launched last month with workshops running through February, March and April in key locations.
The Smarter Society outreach team is already pounding the pavements of Surrey’s high streets, meeting hundreds of business owners face-to-face and signing retailers up for workshops.
In the first few weeks, nearly 140 businesses have registered and 75 received support across five areas.
Four free workshops will take place in each district and borough. This will cover practical topics such as increasing footfall, improving online and in-store visibility, getting more from social media and promotions, and planning for growth.
Matt Furniss, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “High streets are the lifeblood of our communities. They’re integral to the character and vitality of our towns and villages, which is why we’re committed to supporting them alongside our district and borough partners and Business Improvement Districts.
“This programme is a real investment in the people behind Surrey’s independent businesses, giving them the tools and knowledge to thrive – which is good for our economy, our residents and our communities.”
Geoff Baxter, Managing Director of Smarter Society, said: “The Surrey High Street Growth & Innovation Programme is gaining real momentum. Businesses across the county are engaging enthusiastically with our on‑street support and workshops, and we’re proud to see such strong early signs of growth and innovation on Surrey’s high streets.”
High Streets support – online events
Are you a high street business struggling to attend in person? We’ve just released a series of online sessions to allow you to pick up tips and advice virtually.
Recordings will be available on demand afterwards.
- Hybrid event in Camberley – 24 March, 10am – register via eventbrite
- Hybrid event in Camberley – 24 March, 2pm – register via eventbrite
- Online only event – 14 April, 10am – register via eventbrite
- Online only event – 14 April, 2pm – register via eventbrite
How do I sign up?
The programme is free and open to any business trading on a Surrey high street. To find out more, visit the Business Surrey High Streets page.
Or register direct via the Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme enrolment form.
