ANNEX 4 THE GLASGOW MINORITY ETHNIC BUSINESS SUPPORT PROGRAMME
A4.1 The programme provides advice, financial support and access to other support, such as networking seminars and training events, to start-up and established MEBs. Previous research has also identified that, specifically in the West of Scotland, MEBs were over-represented in traditional sectors such as wholesaling and retailing. There was a need for diversification projects with established MEBs and for greater representation of MEBs in emergent and developing sectors of the economy. Therefore, the MEB support programme specifically includes targets for diversification projects with established MEBs as well as specific targets for new start MEBs and increased turnover and employment resulting from increased business development and business growth of Glasgow's MEBs. In addition a stated aim of the programme has been provide a link with established support agencies and programmes, such as those provided by Business Gateway. For example, the programme's aims include:
A4.2 To identify growth businesses in the minority ethnic community and provide priority assistance for them to develop into export-minded operations through the adoption of innovative management processes and introduction of new and additional technology.
A4.3 To provide a holistic business advisory support service, which will identify all the business needs, and then to facilitate the appropriate programme of business solutions, in partnership with other support agencies.
A4.4 To provide support for the MEB community to access relevant business support from the mainstream business development agencies.
A4.5 The programme benefits from ERDF support under the West of Scotland Objective 2 programme, provided through Strathclyde European Partnership.
A4.6 Separate interim evaluations have been carried out by PERC for the Department of Development and Regeneration Services, Glasgow City Council.