FREE business support on offer for Somerset start-ups

Author
Fay Daniels
Marketing Manager - Contracts | Business West
15th March 2022

Free business support is currently available to entrepreneurs in Somerset.  Anyone looking to set up their own business, who have a start-up less than 12 months old, or are restarting trading after a break is eligible.  

Hosted by experienced business advisors at Business West, the advice is offered as a range of easily digestible online workshops and 1-2-1 support, fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund.   

There are six workshops that make up the start-up support package, which cover every aspect of running a business, from idea development, business planning and finance, to digital marketing, access to funding and how to create a sustainability plan. 

As well as advice across a variety of topics, the package of support focuses on how businesses can embrace going green right from the start, from sharing knowledge on sustainability, to tips on how to reduce your carbon footprint.

Jane Purdy, Head of Enterprise at Business West, who oversees the workshops, commented:

“If you are in Somerset and thinking of starting a business, or even if you are already set up as a start-up, but could benefit from some advice from experienced advisers, these workshops are for you. 

“Each workshop will teach you invaluable business skills to help you take steps to make your business idea a successful reality.  We will also offer the ever popular 1-2-1 advice where wanted.”

Places on the workshops are limited to ensure everyone benefits from advice and gets the information they need. Free tickets are still available – you can find out more here.


 This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund.   

The UK Community Renewal Fund is a UK Government programme for 2021/22. This aims to support people and communities most in need across the UK to pilot programmes and new approaches to prepare for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.  It invests in skills, community and place, local business, and supporting people into employment.   For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-community-renewal-fund-prospectus 

  • Start-Up Support Package

    Based in Somerset? Business less than 12 months old, or re-starting after a break? Our Start-Up Support Package, fully funded by Somerset Local Authorities, is suitable for businesses in any sector and can provide you with all the information you need to get your business off the ground.  

Do you want to join the conversation?

Sign up here
  • Workshops to boost your business

    Our Start-Up Support workshops cover a variety of topics, from idea development and digital marketing, to business planning and finance, giving you the expert advice you need to get your business off the ground or grow your sales. FREE for Somerset businesses.