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The programme is delivered through the hive, a not-for-profit organisation with 35 years of experience providing support for start-up, micro and small businesses across North Somerset, and funded by North Somerset Council’s allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). It provides North Somerset businesses with a package of flexible and accessible support, helping overcome challenges and issues that can affect any business and setting them up to succeed well into the future.
With a full year of funding left for BSU, there are still plenty of opportunities to access advice and support for businesses in North Somerset. To find out more and to sign up, visit: hivebusinesssupport.org/business-support-north-somerset/
The UKSPF funded support programme includes:
- A Starting in Business Course that offers foundational insights into starting a business. The course provides information and guidance to help deal with key issues for new businesses.
- 1-2-1 Advice Sessions – delivering support either in person, by phone, or online. Face to face appointments happen at a variety of locations across the region.
- A series of workshops that focus on the key priorities for your business – Taxation and Basic Accountancy, Intellectual Property, Greening your Business etc.
- Access to the latest market intelligence information through COBRA and Confederation of British Industry (CBI) databases.
BSU participant, Patty, said: “The next generation experience has been transformative for me in sales, confidence-building, finding my voice, and utilising social media effectively. With the invaluable support I've received, I've honed my sales skills, gained the confidence to assert myself, discovered my unique voice, and learned to leverage social media platforms to amplify my message. This support has not only enabled my professional development but also empowered me to navigate new opportunities and challenges with resilience and creativity.”
BSU participant, Laura, said: “It has helped me focus on activities that promote my business and win work. I've definitely been braver and have had three sales conversations as a result of some of the support I have received. It's now just finding the right balance of working in and on my business.”
Since the start of the programme, BSU has:
- Helped support 428 businesses and entrepreneurs across North Somerset
- Helped create 55 new businesses
- Helped create 59 new jobs.
North Somerset Council is committed to fostering growth, promoting fairness, and driving sustainable development as part of economic renewal efforts in the region.
Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Spatial Planning, Placemaking and Economy, said: "We want to lead our communities to protect and enhance our region and drive sustainable development. Through initiatives like BSU, we aim to reduce inequalities and promote fairness and opportunity for everyone."
“Supporting businesses across North Somerset is a vital part of developing the region’s economy and improving quality of life for North Somerset residents. Accessing BSU can help you take the next significant step in your business, and I would urge North Somerset residents to take advantage of the opportunity!”
BSU equips businesses with knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in today's competitive landscape. By offering comprehensive support across various stages of business development, from inception to future-proofing, the programme ensures that businesses not only survive but also flourish within North Somerset.