Launch of the Enterprise Catalyst Business Support Initiative

Last week, I was pleased to attend the launch of the Enterprise Catalyst Business Support Initiative and to learn of the services available from the project.

The project is designed to help build an entrepreneurial culture amongst disadvantaged neighbourhoods and communities in the identified target area.

It will support businesses to grow and prosper by engaging with potential entrepreneurs and fledging businesses, and will do this by: raising awareness of enterprise support and provision that is available; and providing intensive and integrated business support package to unemployed clients, individuals interested in starting a business, and existing businesses seeking to expand and diversify.

The project will offer the following services:
• Workshops and seminars around business awareness
• Enterprise generator to move ‘ideas’ into businesses
• Enterprise coaching helping set up businesses
• Business development support
• Specialist social enterprise support

There is a range of small business development grants available through the project:
• Kick Start Fund (£250)
• Acorn Fund (up to £1,000)
• Seedling Fund (up to £2,500)
• Business Booster Fund (up to £10,000).

For further information regarding the project, please contact the Business and Learning Centre on 0121 303 4531 or by email Business.Library@birmingham.gov.uk

I hope this project can benefit businesses and individuals across the Lozells and East Handsworth Ward.