It features a series of networking events and educational workshops led by a range of East Midlands-based companies and specialist advisers, with the aim of developing its members’ professional networks and skills.

Hardy Signs will also sponsor the Community Award in the inaugural Generation Next Awards, which will be held at a virtual ceremony on 16 July.

Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “We are delighted to welcome Hardy Signs to Generation Next as a partner. The company has an award-winning reputation in our region and beyond for its innovative signage solutions.

“The team at Hardy Signs is passionate about giving young talent in our region the tools to succeed and it’s already been great working with marketing manager Daniel Nikolla on our Generation Next board of champions.

“We look forward to working with its wider team throughout the year.”

Hardy Signs was established by managing director Nik Hardy in 1993 and has since grown into one of the leading signage suppliers in the UK. The Burton-based company offers a complete solution across a wide range of physical and digital signage – from project management, installation, and maintenance through to content creation and system management.

Nik Hardy, Managing Director at Hardy Signs, said: “Supporting Generation Next supplements the work we continue to do with apprentices and young people at Hardy Signs. In 2016, we launched the ‘Sign and Print Academy’ in partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College. The academy trains and develops students and apprentices with all the skills they need to become “future sign makers.”

“I know that our team here at Hardy Signs are very excited about this partnership and are looking forward to get even more involved.”

Hardy Signs will be one of six partners of the network, alongside GBS Apprenticeships, Fraser Stretton, Nottingham University Business School, Loughborough College, and headline partner the University of Derby.

To become a member of the network, visit https://generationnextemc.co.uk/become-a-member/ or email the team at [email protected]. You can also keep up to date with the network via LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.