Sign-up to the Devon Business Support Programme
Free support for local businesses, farmers and entrepreneurs based in Devon
Whether you’re running a business – or thinking of starting one – Devon Business Support is here to help. The Devon Business Support Programme gives business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs across Devon access to free, tailored support that is shaped by you and your business goals.
Please fill in the sign-up form below and we will get in touch to book your appointment with an advisor. (Note: Plymouth and Torbay is not covered by this scheme)
Bespoke Business Support
If you’re running a business – or thinking of starting one – you can access free, tailored support that is shaped by you and your business goals. Support is flexible and includes one-to-one advice, workshops, networking opportunities and peer-to-peer learning. Support topics include:
- Business Growth and Development – business planning, entering new markets, innovation and productivity, marketing and customer development, resilience and sustainability
- Starting a Business – developing a business idea, business planning, legal structures, market research, finance and budgeting, building confidence and entrepreneurial skills
- Digital and Marketing – digital tools and productivity, AI and automation, cyber security, digital marketing, adopting new technologies, planning your digital journey, and building an online presence
- Funding and Finance – access to finance, cashflow and budget management, funding opportunities, investment readiness, grant funding, loans and alternative finance, cashflow forecasting,Â
- People and Workforce – HR and recruitment, workforce planning, apprenticeships, leadership and management
- Sustainability and Net Zero – energy and resource efficiency, decarbonisation planning, carbon footprint, renewable energy opportunities, clean growth
Eligible Areas
*To access support, applicants will need to be based in one of the following areas:
- East Devon
- Exeter
- Mid Devon
- Teignbridge
- South Hams
- West Devon
For businesses and entrepreneurs based in North Devon and Torridge, support is being delivered by North Devon+. To register for support, please visit: northdevonplus.co.uk. If you’re not sure which area you come under, you can check by inputting your postcode into the Council Checker.
Who Can Register?
Support is available to established businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs in Devon, including:
- Sole Traders
- Micro businesses
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Social Enterprises
- Community Interest Companies (CICs)
Businesses and business ideas can be from any sector, including farming and agricultural businesses.
What Will the Support Look Like?
Eligible businesses and entrepreneurs will receive between one and six hours of fully funded support, depending on their needs. Support will be delivered online or in-person, through 1:1s and/or workshops.
The programme is designed to provide practical support that responds to the needs and ambitions of each participant – not a one-size-fits-all approach.
The programme is being commissioned by Devon County Council and partner local authorities, and part-funded through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and Devon & Torbay Combined County Authority.
Data Protection
The Growth Hub service for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay is funded by the Department for Business and Trade. Somerset Council is the Accountable Body. The Growth Hub service is managed and delivered by Devon County Council.
The Devon Business Support Programme is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Please see the programmes privacy notice to see how we store and manage your data