Small and aspiring business owners in Wiltshire are set to receive free support this year as part of The UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The project, which is funded by Wiltshire Council and the UK Government, starts in August 2024 and will see a series of fully funded workshops and seminars on offer to start-ups and aspiring business owners alike.
Crucial topics such as business planning, growth strategy, marketing and financial confidence will be covered through both online and in person events and there will be opportunity for those taking part to also apply for grant funding.
The support comes after a successful partnership bid to Wiltshire Council between Wiltshire based small business accelerator The Future Smiths, the University of Bath and non-profit growth network techSPARK.
Simone Ward-Baptiste, Co-Founder of The Future Smiths expressed her enthusiasm about the funding, she said, “On average, almost 20% of businesses fail in their first year, with 50% failing within five. The uncertainty of whether a great idea will sell, or the lack of clarity on the next steps when starting a business are common concerns voiced by aspiring business owners.
“We are incredibly proud to have won this funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It allows us to expand our reach and provide vital support to local entrepreneurs who are the backbone of our community.”
Duncan Robinson, Co-Founder, The Future Smiths, said, “These programmes have been designed to ensure that businesses taking part are fit for the future and each partner brings with them their unique expertise. Those who take part can be confident they will receive the highest standard of support and guidance for success. We look forward to seeing the positive impact on our local economy and the innovations that will emerge from Wiltshire.”
Ben Shorrock, Managing Director of techSPARK commented, “It’s great to be able to continue our support of the Wiltshire community as a part of the consortium, bringing our experience in start-up and idea evolution support”
Andrea Kelly, University of Bath Innovation Centre Manager, added, “We are delighted to continue delivering support across Wiltshire through this funding on behalf of Wiltshire Council. It’s wonderful to lead the consortium on two key programmes. The first programme focuses on the enrichment of rural communities and businesses within those communities, while the second supports start-up businesses across the region. We are excited about the positive impact these initiatives will have on the wider region.”
Start-ups and aspiring entrepreneurs in Wiltshire should visit www.thefuturesmiths.co.uk/startup for full details and to sign up to events.