Eden, Cumbria, The Lake District – A natural choice for business

Partnership approach to business start-up support

16 May 2022

Cumbria Business Growth Hub is delighted to announce an extension to its Business Start-Up Support programme which has successfully been supporting the county's budding entrepreneurs and young businesses for more than 12 years.

Funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the project has been extended until 30th June 2023. Seeing the real value the BSUS programme offers, Allerdale Borough Council, Carlisle City Council, Copeland Borough Council, Eden District Council and South Lakeland District Council are also contributing financially towards the continuation of support.

Lesley Robinson, Business Support Manager, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce manages all activity delivered through Cumbria Business Growth Hub. "I'm absolutely delighted we can continue to offer vital business support services to those thinking of starting a business or in the very early stages of trading. Our flexible, intensive and client led support programme has helped hundreds of businesses start-up and grow within the county over the years. It's great to have the backing of the Local Authorities and I look forward to working with them all further to deliver relevant and tailored support to individuals and businesses within each area."

Cllr Mary Robinson, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy and Enterprise at Eden District Council said: "Inspiring Eden, the Council's plan for economic recovery and prosperity, is underpinned by enterprise and entrepreneurship, and to this end it is great news that the business start-up support programme has been extended. We look forward to working with Cumbria Chamber of Commerce to unlock the full potential of our economy and our communities, to drive and accelerate economic recovery over the coming months."

Through the BSUS programme there are a minimum of 12hrs support on offer including one to one adviser time, a three day business start-up course, access to a part funded subsidy, other free training, access to Cumbria Chamber Enterprise Network and signposting to other business support. To access support call 0844 257 8450 or email [email protected] or visit the Cumbria Growth Hub website.