AN initiative has been launched to help Cumbrian businesses make the most of opportunities.

Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has created the Supply Chain Opportunity Club to help firms build relationships with potential buyers, collaborate successfully and win more contracts.

It is aimed at businesses throughout the county, whatever their sector or size, that are doing business with other businesses or seeking to.

The initiative has come out of research undertaken as part of the chamber’s Supply Chain Gateway.

This research shows that many SMEs struggle to find out what opportunities are available, and when they do find out it’s often too late for them to do the preparation needed to put them in the best position to win.

Alongside this some of the larger businesses are disappointed by the small numbers of local businesses responding to their tender opportunities.

Rob Johnston, chief executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re committed to helping Cumbrian businesses get the very best advice and support to enable them to grow and be successful.

“We know that SMEs throughout the county are missing out on local contracts worth many millions of pounds.

“This new club is about enabling those businesses to get sight of future contracts and making sure they have the right support to take advantage of those opportunities.”

Initial membership is free and for more information, email Eva Foran, supply chain development manager on 0845 226 00 40 or email eva@cumbriachamber.co.uk.