In 2021 AMION completed a summative assessment of the ERDF-funded DEK Growth Programme for Lewisham Council. The programme had overall funding of a little over £1.7 million, with ERDF providing 50%.
The programme was delivered by the Council in partnership with Goldsmiths and London South Bank University and provided support to businesses with growth potential from across London.
Support was provided through a number of linked activities including bootcamps, workshops, events, mentoring and student consultancy.
The evaluation included a telephone survey of beneficiaries (carried out by Spirul) and consultations with programme staff from the Council and the partner universities.
Our evaluation demonstrated that the programme had been successful in achieving its targets and in delivering growth in the London economy. It had also protected jobs and beneficiary turnover during the COVID-19 crisis.