Stronger Together September: Salford Business Community Connections

The September session of Stronger Together brought together entrepreneurs, business owners, and support professionals at the Salford Innovation Forum for an afternoon of meaningful business community connections and practical advice. From banking relationships to AI solutions, the discussions addressed real challenges facing Salford’s business community.

Reviving Relationship Banking for Salford Businesses

With many high street banks disappearing, Metro Bank’s upcoming Salford Quays branch aims to fill the gap. Joe, their Local Business Manager, emphasized the value of relationship banking over digital-only services. Metro Bank is reintroducing dedicated managers who understand local business needs and offer face-to-face support — something a chatbot simply can’t replace.

Client Acquisition Strategies for Salford Entrepreneurs

One of the session’s most engaging discussions focused on winning new clients. Attendees shared proven strategies for breaking through barriers and starting meaningful conversations:

• • Research before you ring: Knowing the decision-maker’s name transforms cold calls.
  • Multi-channel outreach: Combining LinkedIn, email, and phone increases success.
  • Pain point paradox: Businesses often resist change, even when solutions are available.

Funding and Tender Support for Salford Business Growth

For businesses seeking funding and tenders, several resources were highlighted:

Networking Events for Salford Business Community Connections

Finding the right networking events is key to building business community connections. The group shared resources including:

• • Manchester Tech Events

• • Eventbrite

• • Meetup

• • Circles MCR

• • B2B Networking platforms

They also discussed the challenge of reaching professionals who avoid digital communication — a reminder that not all networking happens online.

Sales and Marketing Tips for Salford Business Owners

Effective business development often relies on targeted engagement:

• • Direct messaging outperforms general social media posts

• • AI-generated content needs human editing to avoid clichés

• • Referral strategies, though costly, remain effective

• • Authentic social media presence builds long-term credibility

Support Resources at Salford Innovation Forum

The Forum offers a strong support infrastructure for the Salford business community:

• • Space for marketing materials

• • The Wire platform connecting 500+ businesses

• • Regular events including:
    

     

    • • First Ten: Monthly sessions on acquiring your first 50 customers
    • • Content Creation Circle: Content workshops every third Thursday
    • • Stronger Together: Networking every last Thursday

Accelerator Programs for Salford’s Digital Business Community

Starting this November, Salford Innovation Forum is launching its own accelerator programme designed to support digital businesses through immersive, hands-on guidance.

Free Monthly Session with Artur

Each month, businesses can attend a free session hosted by Artur, offering a taste of the support available through the full programme. It’s ideal for founders who want to explore the benefits before committing.

First10 Intensive Programme

For those ready to dive deeper, the First10 Intensive offers 90 days of structured implementation and mentorship:

• • Daily check-ins via Slack with mentors and peers

• • Weekly in-person workshops (not webinars)

• • Bi-weekly 1-on-1 mentoring with experienced founders

• • Fixed co-working desk surrounded by like-minded entrepreneurs

• • Daily accountability to ensure real progress

• • Weekly office hours for on-the-spot support

• • Real-time feedback on outreach, proposals, pricing, and more

This programme is designed for founders who are ready to implement, not just learn, and want to build real momentum in their business.

Keep an eye on our website for more information about how to join the free monthly sessions or apply for the First10 Intensive programme

Next Steps for Strengthening Salford Business Connections

Following the session, several actions are underway:

• • Distribution of business materials at the Innovation Forum

• • Metro Bank materials to be shared once the Salford branch opens

• • Connections with Salford City Council and Salford University

• • Follow-up emails with resources and contacts

Join Salford’s Business Community at Next Month’s Stronger Together

Stronger Together sessions run on the last Thursday of each month at Salford Innovation Forum. Whether you’re seeking your first customers, exploring funding, or looking to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, you’ll find practical support and genuine community.

For more information or to access resources, contact Salford Innovation Forum. The next session welcomes all businesses looking to grow through Salford business community connections.