Start-up Support Programmes

Considering starting your own business? Have you got a great business idea but you're not sure how to take it forward? Could you benefit from expert tailored support from business specialists? You've come to the right place. FREE tailored support is available for pre-start and early stage businesses. 

A number of our programmes are part-funded by the England 2014 to 2020 European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) Growth Programme. 

1:1 Appointments 

Our team of dedicated Business Advisors can help you through the process of setting up a business. Through the Enterprise Support in the North East 2 project, we provide free advice on finance, accommodation, regulations and all other aspects of working for yourself. 
These sessions provide you with the support and guidance you need when exploring and setting up a business. To arrange an appointment with one of our advisors, call 0191 433 2096, or contact us directly through our online enquiry form.

We are a delivery partner within the Enterprise Support in the North East 2 Project. This is a business start-up project being delivered across Northumberland, Tyne and Wear and County Durham, to assist potential entrepreneurs to become enterprise ready and ultimately self-employed. This is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund. 

Business Courses

As well as providing you with the knowledge and skills you need to run or grow a business, our business courses also allow you to access direct advice from business advisors and industry experts. We run a variety of events, including our regular Head Start information sessions, which is a 3 hour workshop that provides an overview of setting up a business, and our 2 day intensive business bootcamp. We are continuously adding to our programme of events, which cover topics such as HR, Legal and Digital. You can view and register for all of our events on the events page.

Women's Enterprise 

Local Women Local Enterprise (LWLE) was launched by The Millin Charity following a successful pilot and consultation with hundreds of local women. It has developed a reputation as a uniquely accessible learning and development programme that helps women begin their journey towards financial independence. LWLE use enterprise as a catalyst for change, enabling women to build aspiration, confidence, self-esteem, knowledge and skills through a wide range of enterprise-based activities. 

To see how Local Women Local Enterprise can support you, give them a call on 0191 272 5115 or visit their website.

Graduates in Gateshead 

Our Graduates in Gateshead service is available to all College and University students. If you are feeling entrepreneurial and have an idea, skill or hobby you'd like to turn into a business, talk to us or your college or university. Even if you don't have a business qualification or experience we can offer expert advice, support and incentives on office space. 

We can offer a state-of-the-art office space and facilities, a place on our Head Start planning course and much more, all aimed at helping you turn your idea into reality. 

Our team of specialist advisers will be there to offer support and guidance in your journey to getting your business off the ground and beyond.