Scaleup programmes
Back to programmesProgramme
Helm [2023]
Leadership Capacity
Impact for scaleups
80%
Average business growth after becoming a Helm member
400+
Members
£20m
Average revenue
19%
Certified as B Corp
55%
of businesses set sustainability goals
Key sectors
A membership community of entrepreneurial founders and CEOs of high-growth businesses, Helm, has been supporting members to scale their businesses since 2003. It does this through a blend of peer learning, facilitated networking and access to subject matter experts and inspirational speakers.
Its hybrid model includes a digital platform alongside in person events to generate a collective experience, and offer knowledge and support to its Founder community. It has a three-strand approach to support – Business Growth, Better Growth and Personal Growth – that includes encouraging business for good and a focus on health, wealth and legacy.
Helm’s digital platform gives members access to crowdsourced advice, curated introductions and the option to join special interest groups including a group for scaleup leaders looking to pursue B-Corp status. In addition, scaleup leaders have access to a library of expert-led events.
Its curated Forum groups meet ten times a year. Chaired by an experienced founder they involve 6 – 8 fellow founders and the group acts as a supportive non-exec board for members. Helm also offers members personalised connections designed to help them overcome specific scaling challenges.
Helm currently has more than 400 members with an average revenue of £20m. When asked about the key benefits of membership, 57% scaleup leaders highlighted valuable introductions, as well as opportunities to form partnerships and find new customers; and 66% reflected on the opportunities for inspiration and personal growth. Other benefits included time-saving insights (55%) and access to practical operational expertise (42%) from their fellow members. Participating leaders achieved 80% business revenue growth since becoming a Helm member, and 26% reported that they have raised external finance; 17% completed or are completing acquisitions of other companies; 19% achieved B Corp status, and 55% have set sustainability goals.
