An outreach programme by Lancaster University to develop leadership skills in small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) proved so successful, it has become a permanent addition to the curriculum. The Leading Enterprise and Development (LEAD) Programme, which began in 2004, was designed in response to Government drivers to improve the performance of small companies and focused on boosting SME performance by enhancing the leadership skills of their owners.

The programme has helped more than 70 companies focus on their research and development activity, enhancing the business performance of those attending and consequently, the economic performance of their companies. Now, the programme has been adapted and will be offered as a year-long course through the University's Leadership Academy with the option for delegates to achieve a Masters degree at the end of it. The course may even soon be 'exported' as a module taught in universities throughout the Middle East.

For more information contact:
Sue Peters, LEAD Director, s.peters@lancaster.ac.uk
Sarah Robinson, Lancaster University, s.k.robinson@lancaster.ac.uk