The Blueprint for Effective Business Support, developed through a collaboration between Exemplas and Leeds Beckett University, presents a proven framework for delivering high-impact business support to small and medium-sized enterprises. Drawing on over three decades of delivery experience and academic research, this model identifies the essential elements that help SMEs improve performance and scale sustainably.
At the heart of the blueprint is the recognition that productivity and growth are interdependent. Effective support must help businesses increase throughput while generating greater market demand. To achieve this, the blueprint focuses on four core management practices:
- Measuring productivity in the context of each business
- Identifying and improving key business processes
- Clarifying growth ambitions and potential pathways
- Formalising strategic plans to manage change and drive improvement
These practices are enabled by:
- Rigorous diagnostics using validated tools
- Expert coaching tailored to each SME’s needs
- Deep organisational engagement to ensure buy-in and implementation
The blueprint also introduces a structured interaction pattern—a high-intensity, time-bound client journey that facilitates knowledge transfer, reflection, and internalisation. Surrounding these delivery elements are five programme management principles, including effective mobilisation, client selection, relationship management, and outcome evaluation.
This framework offers a practical guide for policymakers, commissioners, and business support providers seeking to design or benchmark SME programmes that deliver measurable impact and long-term value.
Explore the Full Insight Paper
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