Breakthrough Initiative Boosts Entrepreneurship in the UK Posted on Friday 13 January 2012 at 13:25PM by trrpaipai

Saving the economy? Driving innovation? Piece of cake! Enternships is proud to announce a new partnership with Santander Group in a new initiative that is bound to bring the best graduate talent to work with the fastest growing SMEs in the UK.

Breakthrough Enternships is part of a larger program which provides investment for fast-growth SMEs and supports local enterprise and community initiatives in order to help create jobs, inspire tomorrow’s entrepreneurs and fuel a private sector-led economy.

The problem: It’s ironic that in the current economic climate employers are struggling to find good people while graduates are expressing concern over their ability to access the jobs they want. The Breakthrough programme’s Enternship initiative addresses these recruitment issues while providing not only valuable experience for the next generation of businesspeople but also fresh recruits for today’s talent-hungry employers.

The solution: Under this programme, Santander seeks to identify and support successful, fast-growth SMEs as they work to break through to the next level. Spanning across four to five years, Breakthrough will make £200 million available for investment in up to 50 businesses that fall under the category of ‘Growth Champions’.

What’s in for the enterns

Enterns can gain valuable first-hand experience by contributing to a business where their drive and education can make a tangible impact. They can also find a route into smaller companies that may not otherwise benefit from a typical graduate recruitment programme, allowing Enterns to work more closely with senior staff. Getting that first break can often make all the difference between landing a promising career and remaining on the shelf, and having the Santander brand on your CV could make all the difference to an employer.

What’s in for the employers

Businesses taking part in the scheme gain access to the valuable skills of an enthusiastic entern who is keen to learn and make a contribution. Santander will fully fund the placements, also handling the associated administration and marketing. In addition, there is also the longer-term benefit that results from matching motivated graduates to businesses looking to fill permanent positions.