A dedicated support service launched by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has provided assistance to more than a quarter of a million entrepreneurs and small businesses, helping them

grow and thrive.

Grow London Local, backed by £8.7 million in Mayoral funding and delivered by London & Partners, serves as a comprehensive resource for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the city. Through a combination of online tools and in-person guidance, the program connects business owners with expert advice, skill-building opportunities, and networking events to help them navigate challenges and expand their enterprises.

With over a million SMEs operating in London—businesses employing up to 249 people—many face financial vulnerability, with one in four struggling economically. Grow London Local is designed to provide timely and tailored support, equipping businesses with the resources they need to build financial resilience and achieve long-term success.

Since its launch in January 2024, the program has exceeded expectations, reaching over 250,000 entrepreneurs and directly assisting more than 16,000 businesses—nearly doubling the original targets of 132,580 and 12,484, respectively. Importantly, 88% of those supported come from communities facing additional barriers to accessing business support, ensuring inclusive economic development across all London boroughs.

The initiative fulfills a key commitment from the Mayor’s 2021 manifesto, streamlining various support schemes under a single, accessible platform in collaboration with London & Partners. As part of his ongoing efforts to bolster London’s economy, the Mayor will soon unveil the London Growth Plan alongside London Councils and London & Partners. This strategy will focus on enhancing skills, driving the green transition, and fostering economic prosperity throughout the capital and beyond.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, stated:

“The capital’s one million small businesses are the backbone of our economy, delivering services and products we take for granted in our daily lives – but all too often they don’t get the help they need or are entitled to. I’m proud to see Grow London Local helping the capital’s entrepreneurs to not just survive but really thrive. As London’s most pro-business mayor, supporting our fantastic small businesses is a key component of my work to build a better and more prosperous London for everyone.”    

Michelle Cuomo-Boorer, Managing Director of Grow London Local, added:

“Reaching 250,000 entrepreneurs in our first year is a remarkable milestone – and it’s just the beginning. We’re incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made in supporting London’s dynamic and diverse small business community, and excited to build on this success by empowering more businesses to help them thrive.” 

Beneficiaries share their experiences

London-based career coach Andrea Pickard, who supports individuals with dyslexia, praised the program: “Grow London Local has been a game-changer, boosting my confidence and supporting my growth as a new business owner. Their coffee mornings connected me to other entrepreneurs, providing invaluable advice, and a NatWest Bank dinner was an incredible opportunity. As someone with dyslexia, it’s empowering to feel recognised and supported. Their impact has been transformative for both me and my business.” 

Mrinal Madin, whose Kingston-based business The Entertainment Sports Agency has also benefited from Grow London Local services, added: “Learning about the digital skills needed and what to focus on was useful. There is still a long way to go to implement all the actions, but having systems and processes is going to be key to our growth.” 

Paul Wight, Programme Manager for Allia’s Hackney Impact project - one of 374 providers who have partnered with Grow London Local to deliver support - noted: “Our partnership with Grow London Local has been pivotal in connecting us to nearly 400 Hackney businesses. As an active partner in the SME and social enterprise ecosystem, Grow London Local helps ensure we remain integrated in a broader network of support, which empowers businesses to thrive and contributes to sustainable economic growth across Hackney.” 

Celebrating success: upcoming eevents

To mark its first anniversary, Grow London Local will host four free networking coffee mornings on Friday, 7 February, offering small business owners the opportunity to connect and access support. These events will be held at:

- Bobo Social, Ealing

- Blooming Scent Café, Tottenham

- SoLo Craft Fair, Southwark

- Unit Six Café, Newham

Events begin at 10 AM and are open to all local business owners looking to expand their networks and enhance their business strategies.

For more information and to get involved, visit www.growlondonlocal.london.