News / Entrepreneurs
New enterprise support scheme for south Bristol
A new scheme will aim to harness and support entrepreneurship and creativity in south Bristol.
Aimed at people looking to start a business as well as existing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the service is being provided by a collaboration of organisations with expertise in a range of areas, from training and mentoring to digital manufacturing.
South Bristol Enterprise Support (SBES), led by Bristol City Council in partnership with Knowle West Media Centre, The Prince’s Trust, School for Social Entrepreneurs and YTKO Ltd, will include pre-startup training packages, bursaries, access to workshops, support with product development, grants, coaching, a review of business needs and more.
Speaking about the project, Penny Evans, the strategic lead for Knowle West Media Centre, The Factory, said: “We’ve been based in south Bristol for many years and we know that there is talent and creativity in abundance here – but many people haven’t had the opportunities or support to realise their ideas.
“We’re looking forward to supporting people who want to become part of a growing community of maker businesses – no previous experience of digital manufacturing or design will be required.”
Entrepreneurs could access workshops and digital manufacturing technologies at KWMC: The Factory – photo by Ellie Pipe
The project will support businesses in any sector but will include specialist advice for construction, digital and food businesses. It will also provide specific support for young people, social entrepreneurs and women.
Welcoming its launch, mayor Marvin Rees said: “We’re really pleased to be launching the South Bristol Enterprise Support service with our partners to give entrepreneurial activity in south Bristol a boost, particularly during this difficult time.
“Working collaboratively with key city partners is going to be vital to the recovery of Bristol, and SBES will help people from all walks of life who have brilliant ideas to turn them into thriving businesses. I would encourage anyone in the area who wants to become part of a growing community of local businesses to apply.”
The scheme is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and West of England Combined Authority (WECA).
Regional mayor and head of WECA Tim Bowles added: “A creative spark or a new idea can come to any of us at any time, but no-matter what your age or background, it can be difficult to know where to turn for help to turn that idea into a business. That’s what South Bristol Enterprise Support is designed for.
“It gives tailored support to help people strike out on their own and seize the opportunity to turn that into a thriving business.”
For more information or to apply for support, visit www.sbes.org.uk.
Main image courtesy of Plaster
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