Amazon has launched an accelerator to help small UK businesses develop their online operations.

The online retail titan’s new programme will provide support for more than 200,000 small businesses across the UK, launched in partnership with SME support network Enterprise Nation.

The course will comprise free online training, discounts on business supplies and PPE, and training for Amazon Web Services.

Up to 1,000 businesses without online operations will also be able to access a week-long boot camp programme providing training on how to operate online.

Those who take part in these boot camps will subsequently have access to a year’s support on operational areas including marketing and managing finances. 

Outgoing UK boss Doug Gurr said: ”Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy, and by helping them we can help families, communities and the UK bounce back more quickly. Many businesses have found their way through the crisis by providing goods and services online.

“Now the Amazon Small Business Accelerator with Enterprise Nation will provide thousands of offline and online businesses with the skills, tools and support they need to succeed in the digital world, to reach customers through Amazon or any other service.”