Interview with Nassara Bostan

Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership: Unlocking the potential of Bradford businesses 

What support is available for businesses through the LEP? 

Many small businesses are unaware of the vast amount of local support available. We can help them navigate the landscape, make informed decisions and access support. 

Developing the skills and expertise of your workforce is one of the best investments you can make. From upskilling your staff, hiring your first apprentice or intern, to inspiring young people to consider a career in your sector, the LEP has a team of specialist advisors who will provide impartial advice on the best options available for your business. 

We can also help make business investments go further with grant support to purchase new equipment, plant or machinery. Businesses often say that we have helped them progress with their plans much quicker than they could without the support.    

Can you tell us more about your role? 

I work with businesses one-to-one to break down the vast and often complex range of support available that most don’t know where or how to access. 

I become the key point of contact for business support. I always advise them to call me before committing to anything and I can check whether the LEP can support.  We usually can and many businesses are surprised by this.   

What are the most common business challenges that you hear? 

Business owners work very hard on the day-to-day operations and often lack time to reflect on where and how they would like the business to grow or improve. 

I often find the business owner does have a plan, but it only exists in their head. It's my job to get them thinking and ask questions about what these growth plans look like – for example, is it around innovation, exporting, upskilling staff, digital upgrades or finance? It gets them thinking about future goals and the importance of having a vision and plans to help them achieve those goals.