Blueprint for Business: Offering Free Business Growth Support in North Essex
A groundbreaking initiative, Blueprint for Business, has been launched in North Essex, offering a comprehensive programme of free business growth resources to entrepreneurs and companies in the region. This innovative scheme, developed and delivered by a team of award-winning Business Coaches, aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to achieve their business growth goals.
Blueprint for Business offers a wide array of resources to support participants in their growth journey. The programme features a series of in-person and virtual workshops, scheduled from May 2024 to March 2025. In-person workshops are being held at handpicked high-end venues, and will run for 2.5hrs, giving you the opportunity to learn, whilst still managing your day to day operations. Workshops will cover various themes such as overcoming hurdles, business management, business growth and sales. Specialist subject-matter experts will be present at certain events, providing participants with valuable insights and knowledge.
The Virtual workshops which are each 2 hours in length will delve into topics like workplace wellbeing, women in business, digitalization, innovation, start-up strategies, sustainability, intellectual property and effective leadership, including a festive networking session where all participants can come together as an entrepreneurial ecosystem to discuss strategies and potential collaborations. Additionally, participants will have access to up to 7 hours of 1:1 virtual business coaching sessions to receive personalized guidance and support for their growth plans. The whole programme is organised so that businesses can create a pick ‘n’ mix of activities, tailoring the support to their individual business growth goals.
Businesses at any stage, from start-ups to established enterprises, are eligible to apply for the programme, you just must be registered or based in Braintree, Chelmsford, Colchester, Tendring, or Maldon. The programme is open to businesses of all types, including Sole Traders, Limited companies, and Community Interest Companies (CIC). Furthermore, businesses can attend events throughout the region, offering flexibility and the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of perspectives.
Blueprint for Business is a collaborative effort between the North Essex Economic Board, Backing Essex Business, and the Consortium. The programme is funded entirely by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, meaning businesses and entrepreneurs can access the support completely free of charge, representing a significant investment in the local business community, aiming to drive economic development and foster entrepreneurial success.
The key messages and benefits of Blueprint for Business include:
Flexible and Customizable: With a variety of coaching and support options available, participants can pick and choose according to their specific needs and schedules. Whatever their growth aspirations may be, Blueprint for Business has the right experts to guide them.
Practical and Strategic Advice: The programme provides participants with practical and strategic advice, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to overcome challenges and seize growth opportunities.
Expanding Business Connections: Blueprint for Business facilitates networking and connection-building within the North Essex entrepreneurial ecosystem. Participants will gain a whole new set of business connections, opening doors to potential partnerships, collaborations, and future growth.
Accessible Learning: The programme offers both in-person and virtual events, allowing participants to engage in group workshops or receive one-on-one support. The workshops take place in carefully selected high-end venues, ensuring a comfortable and professional learning experience.
Blueprint for Business represents a transformative opportunity for businesses in North Essex to supercharge their growth efforts and unlock their full potential. By providing invaluable resources and connections, this programme is poised to make a significant impact on the local business landscape.
To learn more about Blueprint for Business and to apply for the programme click the button below
Backing Essex Business is undertaking this project jointly with the North Essex Economic Board (NEEB). The Board is a partnership of local authorities in the area: Braintree, Maldon, and Tendring district councils, Colchester Borough Council, Chelmsford City Council and Essex County Council.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government's Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
