Whether you’re just starting your business, or you’ve been going for years, we all need a little extra support every now and then. If you’re looking for some business advice, we’ve got the best places in and around the North East where you can access support for free.
CDC Enterprise Agency in County Durham offer one-to-one guidance and advice, funded partly through the European Regional Development Fund. This assistance is aimed at those interested in starting their own businesses, and will help you with everything from writing a business plan to looking at financial viability and legal issues. Great for start-ups and those with no previous business experience.
Gateshead Council offer free advice on ‘finance, accommodation, regulation and all aspects of working for yourself’ - ideal for those looking to become self-employed. They also run events periodically on self-employment for those who are interested in learning more. This is also funded by the European Regional Development Fund. Get in touch with them via their website to find out how you could access this assistance.
PNE Enterprise is based in Newcastle, and offer a range of support from one-to-one guidance, online chat and a two day intensive business course, all of which is completely free. The one to one appointments with business advisors are suitable for everyone; from those thinking about starting their own business to those planning a new business venture. You can access this support through their website.
Acas Helpline is a confidential service aimed at employers (and employees) encountering difficulties in the workplace. The organisation is based in the North East, and whether your facing an internal dispute or a question about employment law, Acas can help. Their helpline service is completely free, although they do ask that you check the Acas Helpline Online first to see if your question has already been answered.
The Business Factory is based in North Tyneside, and as well as running free seminars, workshops and events for businesses on subjects like marketing for business and public relations for small businesses, they also offer free one-to-one support for startups and existing businesses developing new ideas. They’ll help you with protecting or improving something you’ve developed too.
North East BIC offers free one-to-one advice and guidance for those looking to start a business. They are based in Sunderland, and also offer free start-up workshops, as well as local business events and networking opportunities. You could get advice from expert business advisors on marketing, funding and loans, business planning, keeping records and more. Get in touch with them through their website.
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