UK SME's urged to get a "step ahead" in 2006

Shell Step has begun its search for forward thinking SMEs to join its 20th annual programme and get a key business project completed by a talented undergraduate this summer.

In 2005 Sussex-based Cash Bases Ltd participated in Shell Step and 21-year-old Kate Oseman demonstrated that it could save almost £500,000 a year in its manufacturing process.

Cash Bases’ Paul Hudson, said: “Kate’s involvement brought a fresh approach, which the design team may not have taken, and we may not have achieved the same positive results without her.”

In 2005 1,112 companies, from across the UK, benefited and projects ranged from product development and marketing, to ICT and administration process improvement. Shell Step students provided solutions that saved time and money, developed new capabilities and outlined potential new markets.

Ambitious SMEs, interested in getting a new initiative off the ground, or completing a project that keeps getting overlooked, can find out more at www.shellstep.org.uk.

Shell Step students go on to compete in the local finals of the ‘UK’s Most Enterprising Student’ competition and could win a local, regional or national title.

James Smith, Chairman Shell UK, said: “Shell Step aims to provide opportunities for undergraduates to develop real business skills.

“Now in its 20th year, Shell Step continues to have a dramatic impact, delivering invaluable benefits for the students and companies who take part.”

Shell Step is the UK’s leading creator of tailored work placement programmes for students in small and medium-sized businesses. A national network of skilled agents matches student applicants, from all academic backgrounds, to predefined business projects which take place during the summer.

Shell Step responds to the need for students to be better prepared for the workplace after graduating and for the UK’s smaller businesses to have increased access to the knowledge and expertise of students. Every year the programme places over 1,000 students with small and medium-sized businesses to undertake projects that make a real difference. The student gets a taste of life beyond university and in many cases the company gets a burst of energy and new ideas that can help to make it a better business.