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Home How we can help Support Programmes Durham Business Opportunities Programme (DBOP)
The Durham Business Opportunities Programme (DBOP) is a business support programme, funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) helping County Durham businesses spot opportunities for sustainable growth.
The DBOP programme aims to help your County Durham business by linking you with opportunities for growth. From a new contract, to finding new premises, a new supplier or perhaps some investment, the team can talk through the options with you.
This programme focuses on reaching companies that have not taken up business support previously. Our team will work with you to understand the challenges you may face, the barriers to growth and above all, to identify and provide you with the help to access the support that’s right for your business.
We have become the first port of call for many County Durham businesses, helping them:
The DBOP team aim to simplify the support available, and help you identify opportunities for growth.
The DBOP programme includes a number of sector specific support programmes. These programmes focus on sectors identified as having high growth potential. The programme includes one-to-one support in addition to professional workshops delivered by industry experts to help businesses take advantage of opportunities.
We currently have three sector specific support programmes including:
Explore the benefits of attending our varied events programme to expand your network, broaden your knowledge and raise your profile. Our events often welcome expert speakers providing guidance on a range of specialist business topics.
DBOP works closely with EMN, the organisation tasked with supporting the continued growth of the area’s engineering and manufacturing industries.
County Durham has a rich history in this sector and is home to hundreds of businesses, contributing millions of pounds to our economy employing thousands of people.
County Durham Engineering Manufacturing Network take the lead on engagement with SMEs in the engineering and manufacturing sector, in particular by identifying market opportunities.
If your business is based in County Durham and would like us to explore the opportunities for growth please contact us: DBOPEnquiries@durham.gov.uk.
The Durham Business Opportunities Programme is a six-year programme for SMEs running up until November 2022. It is funded through ERDF and delivered by Business Durham, the economic development arm of Durham County Council.
Guy Bashford
Business Engagement Officer (DBOP)
The DBOP Construction – Routes to Success Programme is a two-year business support programme designed to help County Durham SME’s and those in their supply chain win more public and private sector contracts.
The DBOP Engineering and Manufacturing Programme is a business support programme designed to help County Durham engineering and manufacturing businesses overcome barriers to sales and win new contracts in 2021.
Micro and small businesses from across County Durham are being offered professional support to help get back on track following the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.