Freelancers, sole traders and small businesses across Somerset are being encouraged to access a fully funded support programme called Start Up and Grow.
Supported by Somerset Council through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme is being delivered in partnership between Chamber member Cosmic, together with Business Information Point and North Devon Plus. 
Business Information Point and North Devon Plus provide initial guidance, while Cosmic delivers practical workshops to build digital confidence and skills—ranging from websites and social media to digital tools and AI.
The aim is to give businesses up to six hours of expert advice tailored specifically for their company, alongside specialist workshops and training support.
The programme is open to all individuals, early-stage and start-up businesses, as well as any SMEs (with fewer than 250 employees) operating or located under the Somerset Council local authority. Businesses must be paying taxes or business rates to Somerset Council.
Business receive an initial one-to-one diagnostic review session with an experienced advisor via video call. This is followed by the creation of a fully bespoke and rounded Support and Growth Action Plan covering areas such as:
Spaces are limited so early registration is advised. The programme ends March 2025. More details can be found online at https://businessinfopoint.co.uk/somerset-start-and-grow/#register
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