EF News
The Entrepreneurs’ Forum’s acclaimed Scale-up Leaders’ Academy returns for 2026, refreshed and enhanced to deliver even greater impact for ambitious founders and their teams.
Updated for 2026, the programme now includes the Entrepreneur in Residence initiative, giving participants direct access to experienced business leaders who’ve successfully navigated the scale-up journey. It also places an even greater focus on team engagement, helping founders bring their people with them on the journey to sustainable growth.
Each year, cohort members benefit from 1-1 coaching with former European Coach of the Year, Ian Kinnery, whose expertise and insight have helped some of the North East’s fastest-growing businesses overcome the challenges of scaling successfully.
Designed for founders and their teams, the Academy is built to strengthen leadership capability across the business ensuring everyone shares the same ambition, direction and confidence to grow together.
Recognised nationally as a ‘One to Watch’ programme by the ScaleUp Institute, the Academy has already supported over 60 entrepreneurs since its inception. Alumni have achieved exceptional results, growing their teams by an average of 117%, raising a combined £7 million in investment and celebrating three successful business exits.
To give prospective participants a flavour of what’s to come, the Entrepreneurs’ Forum will host a series of taster sessions throughout the next month. Anyone looking to take their business to the next level is encouraged to get in touch to find out more.
Michael Dixon, who is leading the programme at the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, comments: “The Scale-up Leaders’ Academy has always been about giving ambitious founders the confidence, tools and network to scale.
“With our new Entrepreneur in Residence initiative and an even more engaged cohort experience, we’re ensuring that not just founders, but their whole teams, grow stronger together.”
For more information or to register your interest, visit entrepreneursforum.net/sula
