Leeds Beckett University has secured a new five-year accreditation from the Small Business Charter after a recent assessment of its work with small and medium-sized enterprises.
The award, given by the Chartered Association of Business Schools and the Small Business Charter, keeps Leeds Beckett in a select group of UK universities recognised for deep engagement with smaller firms and clear impact through practical support.
Professor George Lodorfos, Dean of Leeds Business School, said the charter has helped to guide the university’s approach. “The Small Business Charter has been a catalyst for Leeds Beckett, shaping our direction and deepening our commitment to our shared mission to drive real impact for our students, staff, businesses and communities,” he said.
Since first receiving the charter in 2016, the university has supported more than 1,000 businesses through tailored programmes and collaborative projects.
Elland-based Colchester Machine Tool Solutions is one of many firms to benefit. Managing Director Jonathan Wright described the partnership as “a transformative experience” that provided valuable insight for the company through a management Knowledge Transfer Partnership.
Cleckheaton water hygiene company Aquatrust also reported strong gains. Managing Director Paul Kenny said the Help to Grow programme run by Leeds Beckett had strengthened his leadership skills, improved day-to-day operations and helped the firm pursue its sustainability goals.
The renewed accreditation underlines Leeds Beckett University’s role in the region’s business landscape and its ongoing focus on innovation, leadership development and growth.
