Santander UK has embarked on a three-year journey with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) to bolster UK businesses aiming to expand internationally.
Through its sponsorship of DBT’s flagship events, including the upcoming International Trade Week, this collaboration is set to provide vital resources and expertise to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) tap into global markets.
Santander UK and DBT: A Strategic Partnership
The partnership between Santander UK and DBT represents a major boost for UK businesses, especially SMEs, by offering comprehensive support for those looking to enter or expand in international markets.
Santander’s backing of DBT’s International Trade Week, running from 11th to 15th November 2024, highlights the bank’s commitment to fostering global trade opportunities. This annual event offers masterclasses, workshops, and webinars that equip businesses with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive on the global stage.
In addition to International Trade Week, Santander will also support the UK Export Academy, a government initiative that provides educational resources and hands-on assistance to businesses looking to export for the first time or expand their current export operations.
International Trade Week: What to Expect
This year’s International Trade Week is set to explore crucial themes such as digital trade, selling to Europe, and exporting for the first time. Businesses of all sizes will have access to expert advice, networking opportunities, and insights into the latest trade trends.
John Carroll, Head of International and Transactional Banking at Santander UK, stated,
“Through our local connections, international teams, and our digital international trade platform, Santander Navigator, we’ve already helped over 1,500 companies grow internationally since 2019.”
“We are thrilled to be supporting International Trade Week as part of this multi-year partnership, enabling us to make a difference to the UK’s economic growth by supporting even more UK businesses in taking their next step on their export journeys.”
How Santander’s Support Translates into Real Benefits for SMEs
Santander’s sponsorship is more than just financial backing; it’s an active collaboration with the DBT to directly support UK businesses. Here’s how:
- Access to expert advice: Businesses will receive tailored guidance from both government and private sector experts, helping them navigate international trade complexities.
- Skills development: Through workshops and masterclasses, SMEs can upskill their teams to better handle the demands of exporting.
- Global connections: Santander’s extensive network, including its Santander Navigator platform, provides direct access to international markets.
The initiative will stimulate UK economic growth by helping businesses hire more staff, boost wages, and expand into new territories.
Minister for Exports, Gareth Thomas, commented,
“When businesses export, they hire more staff and increase wages, which all helps to grow the economy. Santander’s three-year backing of our International Trade Week is a strong endorsement of the UK’s trade and investment strategy, as we work together to get more small businesses growing and exporting around the world.”
Impact of the Partnership: A Broader Economic Boost
This collaboration not only benefits individual businesses but also contributes to broader UK economic growth. By opening doors to new markets, SMEs can scale more rapidly, which in turn increases job creation and boosts overall productivity.
Benefits of Santander’s Sponsorship |
Impact on SMEs |
|---|---|
| Expert advice and insights | Better preparedness for international trade |
| Access to Santander Navigator | Easier entry into global markets |
| Workshops, webinars, and masterclasses | Enhanced skills for export success |
| Support from both public and private sectors | Holistic approach to overcoming challenges |
The sponsorship represents a long-term commitment by both Santander and DBT, ensuring that UK businesses will continue to receive the support they need to grow and succeed in a competitive global landscape.
The three-year partnership provides sustained resources, reducing the uncertainty that businesses often face when entering foreign markets.
A Bright Future for UK Exporters
To learn more about International Trade Week and register, visit great.gov.uk/campaign-site/itw.
By fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, this partnership showcases how concerted efforts can lead to tangible growth for both businesses and the economy.
Sources: THX News, Department for Business and Trade & Gareth Thomas MP.
