Free business grants, advice and training programme launched for residents and businesses in Central Bedfordshire
Not-for-profit, social enterprise, Wenta, has partnered with Central Bedfordshire Council to launch Government funded programme, through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) as part of the Levelling up Agenda.
Central Start is a brand new, free business start-up support programme for anyone in Central Bedfordshire that is thinking of starting a business or that has recently set one up.
Central Start can help you with one-to-one, independent and trusted business advice, access to start up business grants, CPD accredited skills training on subject areas such as ‘Writing a business plan’, ‘Cashflow’ and ‘Website Development’ and access to a partner referral network, to ensure you get help and support you need with your new venture.
Whether you have a business idea you’d like to explore, want to start a business with no money, or have a particular area of your business you’d like some help with, this support provides a free, one-stop gateway.
Wenta has a 40-year history of delivering successful programmes to support the local economy including The Hertfordshire Start-up Programme and South East Midlands Start-up Programme which helped to support 6,182 businesses between 2016 and 2023. The team are dedicated to providing inclusive, accessible support to meet the needs of those that need it:
Commenting on the programme Emma Wright, Head of Business Support and Advice at Wenta said:
“We’re really excited to be leading on the design and delivery of the Central Bedfordshire Start-up Programme. Through the 40 years of experience Wenta has in helping start-ups (1,975 across previous programmes), it’s fantastic to be able to now offer even more support to Central Bedfordshire businesses.”
Cllr Mary Walsh, Central Bedfordshire Council's Executive Member for Planning and Development, said:
"Businesses in Central Bedfordshire, including those in rural areas, have tremendous potential for growth. We're in a key location nationally, and are already an attractive area for start-ups, growing businesses, and established industry. This new support, worth £2m, will give a further boost to the local economy, attracting inward investment and creating jobs for local people."
To access the free business grants, advice and training programme launched for residents and businesses in Central Bedfordshire contact us on 01438 310020, or email [email protected].
