Students and graduates at Keele University have successfully supported 50 projects in the first 12 months of a Government-backed initiative, helping local businesses and organisations to unlock their potential, innovate, and grow.

And there are still opportunities for 10 more fully-funded projects with eligible businesses in the Newcastle-under-Lyme borough area through Keele's Flourish project.

The University can facilitate 60 fully-funded projects, with students or recent graduates working with eligible businesses for up to 100 hours per project. The projects can be delivered virtually or in-person, and provide an opportunity to trial new ideas or develop existing ones without longer term commitment.

Projects so far have included students supporting the New Vic Theatre to carry out a series of environmental improvements, as well as supporting Divinity Wellbeing and Fitness in Newcastle town centre with social media support and engagement.

Jessica Alice, business owner at Divinity, said: "As a new business owner, I knew that there were areas where I needed support to grow. One of my main goals was to improve my social media presence and engagement. 

"Joining the Flourish programme provided incredible support for social media channels and the application process was simple. Thanks to the project, my business has seen growth in this area and allowed me to focus on other aspects of the business.

"If you run a local business and have an idea you might need support with, I highly recommend getting involved with the project and offering experience to Keele’s students and graduates. It can truly make a difference for your business and there are many talents on offer to choose from."

The Flourish initiative is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, through Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council.

Philippa Richardson, Digital Engagement Manager at Keele University for the Flourish programme, said: "The feedback so far from businesses and organisations who have been involved in the Flourish project has been extremely positive and some are now even looking at taking on more staff on the back of the projects. For our students and graduates, it's a great opportunity for them to transfer and develop their skills and gain real world experience, so the benefits are there for both parties.

"So far we’ve successfully launched 50 projects in the Newcastle-under-Lyme area and we still have room to accommodate 10 more and we'd love to fill those as soon as possible. The Flourish model is proving to be an effective short-term initiative to support growth for local businesses. As Keele celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, the project is also a great example of the University’s ongoing civic role and how the student expertise at Keele can help support and improve our local communities."

Council Leader Simon Tagg said: "Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is proud to show innovation when developing its support for the local business community.

"Our partnership with Keele University not only enables the use of skills through academics, it progresses the embedding of the university as part of the community and also retains talent within the borough."

Any local Newcastle SME, charitable organisation or sole trader can find out more by emailing Philippa Richardson at p.richardson@keele.ac.uk