Hull's Small Business Owners Offered Free Route to Leadership Skills and AI Tools

Photo credit: Gustavo Fring

THE Hull Business & AI Growth Accelerator, launching 2nd February, directly addresses a core challenge identified in Hull's Economic Strategy: improving business productivity and skills to create better-paid jobs. The eight-week programme targets self-employed and small business owners who are stuck firefighting rather than growing.

Delivered in partnership between Hull City Council and Enterprise4All, the course tackles the practical realities of delegation, team management, strategic planning and communication - alongside introducing AI tools that can free up owner time. Participants attend live online sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays (morning or evening), receive one-to-one coaching, and can achieve an ILM Level 5 qualification.

"Many capable business owners are trapped doing everything themselves because they've never been taught how to properly delegate or build operating systems," said Malin Patel, CEO of Enterprise4All. "This programme gives them the practical tools to step back from the weeds and actually lead their business forward."

The initiative aligns with Hull and East Yorkshire's broader economic priorities, focusing on raising productivity and developing the region's business base. With limited places and applications closing 15th January 2026, the programme represents a significant local investment in small business capability.

Previous participants have reported tangible results. "This course gave me confidence in digital tools I used to avoid," said Natalie, an Enterprise4All graduate. "Now, I feel in control of my business growth."

The course is 100% government-funded for self-employed individuals, and 90% funded for SMEs. Applicants must be 19 or older, and live or work in Hull or East Riding.

For more information: https://go.enterprise4all.co.uk/hull-business-growth-accelerator-178332