A programme of support to help new entrepreneurs and businesses has launched in Barrow.
The Barrow Business and Enterprise Support Project provides free support through workshops, webinars, and training as well as help to access wider supply chain opportunities and one to one adviser support.
The project is one of seven being funded by the #BrilliantBarrow Town Deal, which aims to help communities thrive into the future.
It is being delivered by Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership working in collaboration with Cumbria Business Growth Hub and Cumbria Social Enterprise Partnership.
Jon Power, head of programmes at Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, added: “We are delighted to be working with partners to deliver this empowering project for budding Barrow entrepreneurs and those thinking about setting up a business.
“The opportunity to stimulate interest in the supply chain opportunities that exist throughout the area, and improving the productivity of businesses in the borough, is a really positive development.”
The project will provide four distinct strands which aim to enhance the wider network and availability of business support – individuals, community businesses and social enterprises, businesses that could benefit from wider supply chain opportunities and support which aims to improve competitiveness and productivity.
Rob Randell, Cumbria Social Enterprise Partnership Chair said: “CSEP is pleased to be working in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce to deliver business support to further develop our local Social Enterprise sector in Barrow and as part of the Brilliant Barrow Town Deal.
“Social Enterprises in Barrow run some vital local services across the borough at a community level. They provide employment and training opportunities, often to people who may struggle to find these elsewhere. This programme will give the chance to create new Social Enterprises and further support the existing sector.”
Individuals and businesses can access either three or 12 hours of support including an initial business review, available until March 31, 2024.
Councillor Ann Thomson, the leader of Barrow Borough Council and a #BrilliantBarrow Town Deal board member, said: “We are delighted to see this project go live in Barrow to help provide a long-lasting boost to our local economy.
“All kinds of businesses are set to benefit from the accessible and expert help and support available – from people starting out on their own to larger, more established businesses that could tap into unique opportunities available within the wider supply chain in this area.
“A huge amount of work has gone into developing the seven #BrilliantBarrow projects since the funding was secured from Government so it is simply wonderful to see this project launch.”
