Starting a new business?
Got a great business idea but not sure where to start, or who to talk to? Look no further!
Whether you’re a born entrepreneur or considering a new self-employed career, we can help you bring your business concept to life. And what’s more, our Business Support Services are fully funded by the UK Government, which means, to you they are free! We’ll connect you with one of our experienced Business Advisors, or as we like to call them, ‘Navigators’ who will explain and point you in the direction of everything you need to get your exciting business venture off the ground.
How it works: what your business development journey looks like
Getting started with The Growth Hub Gloucestershire is fast, seamless, and entirely cost-free. Here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: Register for our fully funded support
Start by completing our online registration, it only takes a couple of minutes. By answering a few basic questions, we can understand what you need, and how we can help. Once we’ve received your details, we’ll be in touch within 5 working days to arrange your initial ‘Discovery Meeting’.
Step 2: Explore our resources
From the moment you’ve registered, and before your Discovery Meeting takes place, you’ll have full access to all our online resources and business guides. You can also book a place on any of our wide range of workshops and one-to-ones.
Step 3: Attend your Discovery Meeting appointment
Your Discovery Meeting gets you talking to your dedicated Navigator, in-person or online. They’ll explore your business goals and ambitions, and any challenges or barriers you’re facing. Using what they discover, your Navigator will create a customised ‘Growth Plan’ for you within 5 working days.
Specific to your business, the plan clearly points you in the direction of, or ‘signposts’ online resources, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, all carefully selected to provide the tailored support you and your business need.
Together, your Navigator will help you answer questions like:
- What pitfalls should I look out for in the early stages of my business venture?
- What do I need to know about choosing a business name?
- What is a Business Plan, and how do I create one?
- Should I operate as a sole-trader, a limited company, or a partnership?
- What must I tell HMRC, how and when?
- Where can I find help to create my brand, website, and social media plan?
- Where can I look for funding?
Your plan will signpost you to the most relevant things you need:
Knowledge-Sharing Events
Join workshops and one-to-ones designed to develop your skills, offer solutions to specific challenges, and introduce you to other like-minded business owners on the same journey.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders in a welcoming environment, expanding your network and opening doors to new collaborations.
One-to-One Mentoring
Partner up with a Hub Mentor who can help you explore new ideas, provide invaluable insights, and offer fresh perspectives at every stage of your venture.
Funding Guidance
Understand what to consider when seeking funding for your business, where to find it, and what might be most suitable option for your business.
Business Resources
Explore the growing range of free resources within our online library, alongside other third-party guides that will boost your knowledge and confidence.
Tailored Support
Your Navigator will be by your side, whether it’s to delve into the detail, answer questions, or signpost further resources at each stage of your development.
Ready to take the next step towards launching your business?
“If we didn’t have the chance to work with The Growth Hub and re-evaluate what we were doing, it would have taken us a lot longer to get to where we are now. We knew what we wanted to achieve, but sometimes you just need to strip back to the basics in order to put your best foot forwards.”
Tom Hughes
Founder of Tubby Toms
READ THE SUCCESS STORY
Our Success Stories
Quarter of a million downloads milestone for Gloucestershire podcast business Limor
