INITIATIVES designed to support new businesses across Staffordshire have reached a milestone.
More than 1,000 people have now been helped by the county council's Start-up Mentoring Scheme since it launched in 2021 – and a total of 500 businesses have also received guidance via the Get Started and Grow project since 2022.
Among those helped is Sophie Shelley, from Shenstone, who accessed support after taking on a franchise with House of Colour UK.
She said:
"It's been a lot harder starting out than I thought it would be, so it's great to get the support from Staffordshire County Council through programmes like Get Started and Grow and Women in Business.
"Initially I didn't realise how much I would have to rely on social media, so the session on how to use it effectively to market my business was really useful."
Cllr Robin Hall, Staffordshire County Council's cabinet member for economy and skills, said:
"Starting a business can be exciting, but the first few months and years can also be incredibly challenging.
"Getting the right expert advice and practical support at an early stage can make a real difference.
"It is fantastic that more than 1,000 people have now been supported through our Start-up Mentoring Scheme, with a further 500 businesses benefiting from Get Started and Grow.
"Staffordshire is home to so many ambitious entrepreneurs and small businesses. We want to give them the strongest possible foundations to grow, create jobs and contribute to our local economy."
More details on support for businesses can be found on the county council's website.
