Registrations open for next Evolve Growth Forum programmes supporting Dorset SMEs

Following the successful completion of its first programme, Evolve’s Growth Forum is now inviting ambitious small and medium-sized businesses across Dorset to register for one of two fully-funded business support programmes starting in the new year.
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Rachel Hadfield
December 2, 2025

Delivered by local business advisory specialists Evolve and funded by Business Growth Dorset, the Growth Forum is designed to help business leaders tackle challenges, build momentum and develop clear strategies for sustainable growth.

 

Two new cohorts are now open for registration – one tailored for Dorset-based businesses from any sector, and another specifically for those in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Each forum brings together up to 15 local business owners and leaders for a series of three in-person, peer-led workshops, alongside dedicated one-to-one support and access to specialist business masterclasses.

 

Over the course of the programme, participants will review strategic topics – from refining leadership style and the importance of creating a values-led culture, to harnessing the potential of AI, automation and innovation to drive progress and growth.

 

David Mutton, Business Advisor at Evolve and programme lead, said: “The Evolve Growth Forum offers a real opportunity for local business owners and leaders to not only discuss their challenges and opportunities, but also to give them the tools and confidence to help grow their businesses, benefitting from the support of others on a similar journey.

 

“The sessions are more than just theory, they are about helping business leaders to create real changes and look at new opportunities in their business.”

 

Liz Hutchings, Founder and Managing Director at Total Guide To Ltd and a participant in the first programme, added: “As a local business owner, I’ve found it incredibly valuable to take time away from day-to-day operations to work on the business instead of just in it. The sessions have prompted fresh thinking and inspired new approaches that I can bring back to my team.

“It’s not ‘death by PowerPoint’ – it’s interactive, collaborative and with practical advice from people who actually get it.”

 

The Evolve Growth Forum is free to attend and open to SMEs based in the Dorset Council or BCP Council areas. Each cohort is limited to 15 participants.  To find out more and register your interest, visit https://evolveadvisory.co.uk/service/the-evolve-growth-forum/

Authored by:

Rachel Hadfield

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The Evolve team has played an integral part in making the Peer Networks programme a success in Dorset. The whole team has always acted with the highest standards and with great professionalism, be that in the management of the programme or the coordination. They are extremely diligent and organised and they have been pleasure to work with. Following their involvement with Peer Networks, they also successfully won a competitive tender for another business support programme we commissioned which they have approached with an equally excellent attitude.

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Rebecca Davies

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The group helped me take a step back and look at things differently. It’s made a real difference having that kind of support and input from people who’ve been through similar experiences.

Jenny Freeman

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It has opened my eyes and has been a great experience. The Business Accelerator programme has raised a lot of important questions and made me reflect, leading to a better business strategy

Ben Teversham

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Working with Warren and Evolve has been instrumental in shaping DDC Dolphin’s future. The strategic advice and leadership training provided have equipped us with a clear vision and the skills to implement it effectively. We now have a stronger financial foundation and a more aligned leadership team, ready to drive the company towards new successes. We’re grateful for their support and expertise.

Alan Hyde

Managing Director at DDC Dolphin
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The training provided by Evolve has been invaluable for our leadership team. The sessions have equipped us with essential skills and fostered a culture of continuous improvement. We are now better equipped to handle complex challenges, engage our teams effectively, and drive the firm forward. We greatly appreciate Evolve’s expertise and commitment to our development.

Nigel Smith

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Participating in Evolve’s Growth & Productivity Programme has been incredibly beneficial. The programme provided crucial insights into growth strategies and enhanced our team’s engagement through improved communication and leadership. While there is still work to be done, the progress we’ve made is very promising. Thank you to Evolve and the Dorset LEP for their support.

Chris Guy

Managing Director of Amtek Engineering Solutions
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Attending Evolve’s Growth Group Programme was incredibly valuable. The workshops on business strategy, planning, and leadership helped me broaden my horizons and gain new insights. Meeting other leaders facing similar challenges was both supportive and motivating. Joining a business peer group has allowed me to continue benefiting from this broader perspective. Thank you to Evolve for this transformative experience.

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I first met David in November 2022. Since then he has been a significant positive influence on my growth as a founder, providing invaluable advice and new opportunities for both my personal development and my business. Thank you, David, for your encouragement and help. I truly appreciate it and would gladly recommend you to any founder or organisation seeking advisory services.

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It’s been fantastic because we’ve had the opportunity to step out of the office and the questions have been steered. It’s got everybody opening up and they’ve been a lot more open and honest about what the gaps are, where the holes are and what we need to fill. We’ve taken that away and implemented that in the higher management meetings. We’ve implemented so much from the Evolve sessions that will go towards the company yearly objectives and I hope will continuously improve what we’re trying to do within the business.

Mark Northey

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Ryan Bransome

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There was a real value in being reminded of things I knew but hadn’t thought about in a while—sometimes a little wisdom goes a long way.

Nicole Cook

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The support from Evolve has proven invaluable over the past year – even for more established businesses, it is worthwhile to take a brief step back from day-to-day operations and assess your overall strategy and business direction. The long-term peer group format gives the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with other local founders and business owners, with an open forum to both discuss challenges and celebrate each others’ successes. Thanks to the support and guidance from Evolve, we have significantly developed our strategic plan, and have successfully applied for innovation grants to develop exciting new products which will act as pillars of our future growth. We highly recommend both the Evolve Business Accelerator programme and the wider Evolve support network for any business looking to grow.

Joseph Salmon

Managing Director, Salmon Marine
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BCP Business Accelerator

Although it can be challenging to step away from the day-to-day running of the business, it’s vital to make space for strategic thinking. Taking time out to work on the business, rather than just in it, allowed me to pause, reflect and reassess where we’re heading. The workshop created that opportunity and delivered real value.

Michele Whitehurst

MD, Actisense
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Growth Groups

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