Solihull Council is highlighting the wide range of free business support available to entrepreneurs who live or work in the borough.
Businesses in Solihull can get tailored business support from the Birmingham and Solihull Growth Hub. The Growth Hub is free to access, impartial and independent, with one-to-one support from experienced business advisers available and is part of the regional Business Growth West Midlands service.
It also offers a variety of business support programmes including those focused on sustainability, innovation and supporting social enterprises. Solihull businesses are encouraged to contact the Growth Hub team by phone on 0121 303 6800 or by email at growthhub@birmingham.gov.uk for more information.
The Birmingham and Solihull Growth Hub can also support with access to grants. Two grants are currently available that offer from £2500 up to £100,000 for larger projects. The West Midlands SME (Small to Medium Enterprise) Grant Programme offers funding for start-ups and existing businesses to expand or invest in new equipment. The Net Zero Grant Programme helps businesses to reduce their environmental impact and decrease the rising energy costs, supporting investment in heating, lighting, solar panels and insulation.
Solihull businesses can also benefit from the Enterprise for Success programme, which offers free start up and early-stage business support. The support is designed to guide new entrepreneurs through the crucial first stages of establishing a business in a supportive learning environment.
Enterprise for Success is open to anyone who is looking to set up a business or who has started a business in the last twelve months in Solihull. You must be a resident of Solihull, or your business must be in Solihull, to apply. Start-ups and early-stage businesses can book on upcoming workshops here: https://rocksolidconsultinguk.com/funded-programmes/enterprise-for-success
All programmes are funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Councillor Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council and Cabinet Member for Business and Economy, said:
“I take pride in the variety of free business support and advice that we provide to new, established and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Solihull is a key economic driver in the region thanks to the tenacity and passion of our local business owners. Our mission is to ensure that entrepreneurs in Solihull can access the resources, knowledge and support they need so that the borough can continue to lead the economic fight back post-pandemic.”
For access to more business support, advice and resources, visit the Solihull for Success website: https://www.solihullforsuccess.com/