Mentoring
Make business aspirations a reality with our free mentoring support.
We are offering;
- Up to 12 hours of free one-on-one mentoring
- Group peer network sessions
- Support to apply for grant funding
- Access to world-leading research facilities and experts
Our inclusive programme is open to a wide range of people. Whether you’re self-employed or leading a successful SME. If you’re new to mentoring, or have experienced the benefits of one-on-one mentoring in the past, we will support you to help your business to grow.
The programme is designed to support people working in fresh food and drink on a wide range of areas, from getting started, market research, sales, people management, finance or legal, through to supply chain development or marketing strategies.
Is mentoring right for me?
You could be an existing SME business, or not have a business yet at all.
We will match you with carefully selected mentors, who have the skills and industry experience to support your business growth.
From the start, you’ll be working with your mentor to decide together on what you want to achieve and the support you need to get there.
Applications are open to people working in fresh food and drink, who are based in Kent or Medway and who have not received more than £200,000 in public funds over the last 3 fiscal years.
If you'd like to find out more about how we can support you, get in touch using our contact form.
Meet our mentors
Search our incredible team of experienced industry mentors, here to support you.
We are seeking mentors who share our vision for an exciting sustainable region, which is home to world-leading talent and innovative food and drink businesses.
About our mentors
To become a Growing Kent & Medway mentor you need to;
• Want to make a difference
• Be passionate about supporting people to achieve their goals
• Be prepared to share your experiences and networks
• Act as a positive role model
• Have good listening skills and be easy to talk to
• Be committed, reliable and maintain confidentiality
Mentors will be matched with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, supporting start-ups or established businesses. We are looking for people with a wide-range of experience and knowledge.
Full training will be provided and you will be supported throughout the programme.
Why become a mentor?
Being a mentor is a rewarding experience. By joining our mentoring programme, you will have a voice in the future of the food and drink sector in the region.
It will give you access to world-class expertise and facilities and help to grow your network with innovative businesses.
Interested? We'd love to hear from you. Apply here!
If you have any questions about becoming a mentor, please get in touch using our form.
Mentoring news and inspiration
Read more news featuresBusiness support
Find out what happened when food entrepreneur, Petra Ojukwu met with Floortje Hoette, Produced in Kent, for their first mentoring session.
Business support
Fleur Record-Smith and Rachael Carley present five helpful tips to bear in mind when writing a Business Sustainability Policy.
Business support
Aleta has been matched with our mentor Deborah Turner, to gain support and guidance for her business Pretty Pink Potato.
Business support
JEM's Bar Co. and working with mentor Jo Pullen. They tell us about their experience so far and the importance of always thinking of your customers
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Speak to a mentor
Mentoring Team
Our mentor for ‘speciality area’ can answer any questions you have via the contact form…
