Swindon startup secures Government funding boost

Small and aspiring business owners are set to receive free support this year as part of The UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

They include Swindon based small business accelerator The Future Smiths.

The project, which is funded by Wiltshire Council and the UK Government, starts next month and will see a series of fully funded workshops and seminars on offer to startups and aspiring business owners alike.

Crucial topics such as business planning, growth strategy, marketing and financial confidence will be covered through both online and in person events and there will be opportunity for those taking part to also apply for grant funding.

The support comes after a successful partnership bid for the funding between The Future Smiths, the University of Bath and non-profit growth network techSPARK. 

Simone Ward-Baptiste, co-founder of The Future Smiths, said: “On average, almost 20 percent of businesses fail in their first year, with 50 percent failing within five. 

"The uncertainty of whether a great idea will sell, or the lack of clarity on the next steps when starting a business are common concerns voiced by aspiring business owners.

"We are incredibly proud to have won this funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It allows us to expand our reach and provide vital support to local entrepreneurs who are the backbone of our community.”

Co-founder Duncan Robinson said: “These programmes have been designed to ensure that businesses taking part are fit for the future and each partner brings with them their unique expertise. 

"Those who take part can be confident they will receive the highest standard of support and guidance for success. We look forward to seeing the positive impact on our local economy and the innovations that will emerge from Wiltshire.”

Ben Shorrock, Managing Director of techSPARK, said: "It's great to be able to continue our support of the Wiltshire community as a part of the consortium, bringing our experience in start-up and idea evolution support"

Start-ups and aspiring entrepreneurs in Wiltshire can visit https://www.thefuturesmiths.co.uk/startup for full details and to sign up to events.