In addition to equity finance, loans and grants, there is a range of business support activities which are focused on regional SMEs and are designed to maximise the economic development benefits deriving from regional investment fund activity.
Current access to finance ‘soft-side’ support in the North East region includes the following subsidised products which are part of ‘Solutions for Business’, the government’s package of publicly funded business support, enabling you to access leading experts at affordable fees.
All sectors
AMAP
AMAP is part of the Faculty of Applied Sciences within the University of Sunderland and evolved from two previous University groups with complementary skills and knowledge across the automotive and manufacturing sectors.
Their expertise covers a broad range of industrial applications and digital engineering technologies and they are able to provide a range of valuable services to manufacturers.
They can also combine their expertise as a leading group in international research in automotve, manufacturing and maintenance engineering and ultra low carbon vehicle technology.
By providing problem-solving solutions to manufacturers of all capabilities, offering training or advice, or working in partnership-based research, AMAP's basic working principle is to improve or develop the current state of a company or individual.
Their services can be applied equally to a company of 100 or less employees, to major corporations, or even to individuals looking to up-skill through education and professional development.
To find out how AMAP can help you or your company learn, adapt and grow, click the link to view their website, which gives you a suitable overview of the services, training, research and consultancy available.
Be Enterprising
In County Durham, the Be Enterprising Programme is supported by Local Enterprise Growth Initiative (LEGI) funding.
The Programme is directed towards increasing levels of enterprise and participation in enterprise activities within the four district localities. It is targeted at communities, and the businesses it supports fall within the 98 Super Output Areas (SOAs) that are within the 10% most employment deprived SOAs in England.
In April 2009 Be Enterprising was awarded a £4.1m part finance package from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2007-13. This funding will accelerate, deepen and enhance the County Durham LEGI programme's activities. ERDF will enable additional activity in the 10% most employment deprived super output areas and will extend the reach to a wider footprint embracing the 30% most employment deprived super output areas across County Durham, creating an integrated initative to develop enterprise.
THEIR MISSION STATEMENT
To increase:
- total entrepreneurial activity to the National average.
- the number of young people thinking about starting a business or self employment.
- business productivity and survival rates.
To ensure:
- spend and activities of mainstream business support service providers are increased in deprived neighbourhoods.
- VAT business registration exceeds the County average.
For more information, visit their website
Business Link
Business Link – the Government’s ‘one stop’ business support service – also gives customers fast access to the right information to answer their business concerns. The independent advisers in Business Link can help businesses to identify the most appropriate course of action, the right order to address their needs and the best places to access that help.
Business Link works with organisations that have the necessary expertise to deal with these enquiries and can broker the customer to the most appropriate source of advice or finance from either the public or private sector. For example, local authorities operate a range of support and financial incentives, some of which are covered in this guide. However, as there can be changes at short notice, please contact Business Link for up to date information on loans and grants in your local authority area.
Business Link host an events portal where you can find everything you need to know about Business Link events in the North East - www.eventsnortheast.co.uk
CBI
The Confederation of British Industry's mission is to help create and sustain the conditions in which businesses in the United Kingdom can compete and prosper for the benefit of all. They are the premier lobbying organisation for UK business on national and international issues.
The CBI works with the UK government, international legislators and policy-makers to help UK businesses compete effectively. CBI policy is decided by their members – senior professionals from all sectors and sizes of business are directly involved in the policy-making process.
Their network of offices around the UK in Beijing, Brussels and Washington, provides on-the-ground support for our members.
To find out more or to enquire about membership contact: Sarah.Green@cbi.org.uk
Centre for Process Innovation (CPI)
Telephone 01642 455 340Sector: Biotechnology, Chemical, Engineering, Environmental, Food Economy, Manufacturing, TechnologyThe CPI creates significant value for the North East through managing and facilitating a number of Economic Support Projects, attracting inward investment from the public and private sectors.
RENEW at CPI is tasked with the facilitation and delivery of commercial energy and environmental technology projects across the North East of England and is endeavouring to place the region at the forefront of the UK’s low carbon and sustainable energy drive.
NanoCentral at CPI is driving the safe, beneficial and profitable commercialisation of nanomaterials. An alliance of organisations capable of providing you access to a broad range of leading edge technologies, equipment and services.
NanoKTN Providing access to the UK’s world class micro and nano technology sector, the Nanotechnology KTN facilitates the transfer of knowledge and experience between industry and research, offering companies dealing in small-scale technology access to information on new processes, patents and funding as well as keeping up-to-date with industry regulation.
Enterprise Europe Network – North East The regional division of the ‘European Enterprise Network,’ managed by CPI, helps companies across the North East build new partnerships, develop new products and services and secure finance for R&D and innovation.
Innovation Accelerator CPI provides incubator facilities and support for new SME businesses in the process industries sector for the Tees Valley.
Centre of Excellence for Life Sciences (CELS)
CELS offers a range of support and commercial services to healthcare and life science companies.
Cels supports a wide range of companies and individuals operating in the Healthcare and Life Sciences sector, primarily:
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Existing regional businesses in North East England
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Researchers with potential new technology
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New start-up businesses in healthcare and bio-technology
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Companies seeking regional partners
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Companies with new ideas that they'd like developing
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Companies looking to locate in North East England
If you fit into one of these categories, find out how we can help you by looking on their website.
If you do not fit into any of these categories, contact CELS to discuss how we can help you.
HealthConnect is a network for professionals and organisations working in the healthcare and life sciences sector.
The network provides a range of premier support activities and services which are all designed to drive best practice and help members grow and succeed.
HealthConnect members are active in assistive technology, health informatics, medical devices, biotechnology and life sciences, health and social care, health and well being as well as their associated supply chains.
Be well connected – HealthConnect brings together healthcare and life sciences professionals and organisations to stimulate translational research, innovation, collaboration as well as commercial opportunities.
Joining HealthConnect gives you access to a broad range of benefits and services aimed at delivering value to help your business increase its performance and competitiveness.
NEPAF is a state of the art proteome analysis facility using cutting edge equipment, technology and expertise to support commercial, academic and clinical research and development.
NEPAF works with a wide range of research and development groups and healthcare companies in the private and public sector in the UK and internationally, providing them with access to leading expertise and equipment for the study of proteins.
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Codeworks
0191 556 1122Sector: Communications, Design/creative, Digital, IT/Software, TechnologyEstablished in 2003, Codeworks is a centre for digital innovation based in North East England.They provide support in innovation, business development, networking and promotion.
Their Digital Media Technologies (DMT) programme focuses on finding and developing pre-commercial new media technologies, concepts and business models with the intention of creating spinouts and/or licensing opportunities.
Codeworks' sector development programme manifests itself through their collaborative networks Codeworks Connect and Codeworks GameHorizon. These hugely successful private sector associations facilitate commercial collaboration and provide hands-on support to digital technology and media companies of all sizes.
Running in parallel to Connect and GameHorizon, Codeworks' Digital Placement Programme has identified and placed hundreds of the most promising students from North Eastern universities into digital companies throughout the region. They collaborate with their partners to broaden the highly successful scheme, which covers post-graduate talent and skills development.
For more information on Codeworks visit their website or contact enquiries@codeworks.net
Connect North East
Connect North East facilitates experience exchange, peer to peer learning, and introductions to professional services, business support and investment for early stage science and technology startup companies.
It also co-ordinates workshops, seminars, conferences, debates, mentoring and coaching facilities, advice and information provision and networking opportunities which focus on business growth.
For futher information, contact t.allen@bridgeclubnorth.com
County Durham Development Company
County Durham Development Company exists to help create jobs and prosperity for the people of County Durham by promoting and developing business opportunities for the County. County Durham Development Company helps many companies. They help by:
- Identifying possible premises and locations to suit your needs.
- Fast tracking through the enterprise network and helping you cut through the red tape.
- Keeping you informed of all the latest sites and financial support packages through their constantly updated website.
They have a searchable property database on-line, helping you to find the right location. The information covers details of office, commercial and industrial property and details of land available.
For more information contact enquiries@wherebusinessgrows.co.uk or visit their website
Darlington Business Venture
Darlington Business Venture exists to encourage and support the development of a stable and diverse local economy.
Darlington Business Venture is a not for profit organisation offering a range of support services, business counselling, advice, training and consultancy.
They deliver models of best practice and skills development to start and improve enterprises. This free delivery for every business is achieved through the ongoing support of Business Link.
Grant Funding sources for business include: Darlington Borough Council, Business Link Tees Valley and The Prince's Trust.
To find out more about Darlington Business venture contact them at enquiries@dbv-northeast.co.uk
Design Network North
0191 516 4400Sector: Design/creative, Digital, IT/Software, Retail, TechnologyDesign Network North supports innovative companies, helping them to utilise high quality design skills and processes. They accomplish this by offering specialised product design, industrial design and new product development support.
Good design is the key to future competitiveness. At a time when product quality standards are universally high and costs have been driven relentlessly downward, design and improved functionality have become the most important factors in the marketplace.
Intended to enhance regional companies’ ability to employ high-quality design, skills and processes, Design Network North works closely with other regional, national and international design projects, and helps those without access to the relevant design skills, achieve their aspirations for growth.
Design Network North also holds regular networking events, 'Rise & Design', and delivers onsite Design Performance Workshops to embed good design within your business.
Design Network North is a project delivered by RTC North.
For more information email enquiries@designnetworknorth.org or visit their website.
DigitalCity
DigitalCity is creating the most vibrant digital hub in the UK – a successful and self-sustaining digital media, digital technology and creative supercluster based in the North East. Along the way, we’re developing a worldwide reputation for creativity, imagination and daring.
DigitalCity provides support for start up companies, business development companies and high growth companies.
The DigitalCity Business Growth Workshop System is designed to arm entrepreneurs with everything they need to launch and grow a business successfully. It is an exciting and radical system of workshops different to any other incubation offering in the UK.
This new system is specifically geared towards digital media, digital technologies and creative businesses; and it offers an utterly unique cycle of in depth bootcamps that will enable you to develop your business as effectively and as fast as possible. For more information on these contact alison.newlove@dcbusiness.eu
Business Development Support is available to every digital media, digital technologies or creative business in the Tees Valley and the North East. It gives you the chance to benefit from Mentor Surgeries, First Wednesday events, webside membership, a signposting service and business information services.
High Growth Support is characterised by more intensive and focussed involvement from DigitalCity Business. On top of the services under in Business Development Support, companies in High Growth Support get priority for surgery booking, business opportunity leads, business research, investment activities and trade show exposure; special PR and marketing resources; as well as extended Shoulder to Shoulder Mentoring from a select mentor team.
For more information visit their website or contact mark.elliott@dcbusiness.eu
East Durham Business Service
East Durham Business Service (EDBS) is the Enterprise Agency for the District of Easington. Part of the National Federation of Enterprise Agencies (NFEA) it offers small and medium sized businesses and those wishing to start their own business the support needed. Based at Novus Business Centre, in the heart of the business community of Peterlee, EDBS has specialists in business advice, economic development and grant administration.
The Business Support team offer independent advice to businesses on a range of topics including Start up, marketing, retail, commercial property and growth and expansion. Funding can also be sought from a range of key partners including One North East and Business Link.
East Durham Business Service has the following aims:
- Develop an entrepreneurial culture in East Durham
- Foster business growth and business survival
- Generate quality and sustainable employment for local people
- Promote lifelong learning and skills development amongst the existing and future workforce
- Develop the physical infrastructure to meet business needs
- Attract investment into East Durham
EEF
EEF is dedicated to the future of manufacturing. As the manufacturers’ organisation, they believe that a modern, competitive and innovative manufacturing industry is central to the UK’s economic future.
Everything they do - working with manufacturers and policy makers - is designed to help that industry flourish and to meet the world’s evolving appetite for innovative and responsibly-produced manufactured goods.
They provide courses, apprentiships and tailored training. As well as the training, they offer a broad spectrum of consultancy from Business improvement to Occupational Health and Safety.
To find out about membership and what EEF could do for you vist www.eef.org.uk
Enterprise Europe Network
Supporting small business is a cornerstone of the EU's drive for growth and jobs. 99% of all EU companies are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), accounting for 67% of jobs. The EEN are co-financed through the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP, 2007-13), an EU funding programme designed to make European companies more competitive.
The EEN's services are tailored to SMEs but are also available to all other businesses, universities and research centres. International networking events are organised, helping to find potential business partners in other countries aiding expansion and reducing the risk.
The vast network aids in Technology Transfer, using Europe’s largest database of cutting-edge technologies, containing more than 13,000 profiles, the Network brings together research and commercial applications. Support in sourcing the right finance is offered, looking at Venture Capital, Loans, Tax Credits and Public Financial Aid.
Many more benefits are available through the EEN and full information on these can be found at www.enterprise-europe-network.ec.europa.eu
Alternatively contact the North East branch: tony.ikwue@onenortheast.co.uk
Entrepreneurs’ Forum
The Forum provides a powerful cross-sector network to help new and developing businesses through sharing practical experiences via their open workshops, inspirational speakers and private mentoring.
They deliver millions of pounds of added value for the North East by bringing together like-minded entrepreneurs to share knowledge, contacts and inspiration in a confidential, non-trading environment.
They provide opportunities to raise awareness through the Forum's PR programme via the mainstream media as well as the Forum magazine and website.
They also give access to the expertise of the Forum's corporate partners who specialise in law, accountancy, IT and wealth management.
If you think the forum could help you contact info@entrepreneursforum.net
The 'If we can you can' website is also an extremely helpful source of information full of user-generated content to help aspiring entrepreneurs.
Entrust
Entrust provides assistance for individuals and local businesses through a range of customised services, tailored to meet your needs. These services are provided by their in-house staff supported by their extensive network of professionals and experienced business consultants who are passionate about enterprise and realise that every business is different.
They offer services, which aim to support small and medium sized businesses, to help them grow and prosper through services such as the Home Working Fund, cutting the costs involved with setting up efficient operations from home.
They also offer help in sourcing appropriate finance solutions. Entrust have strong links with Solutions for Business, the Government's suite of funded products.
To find out more email: enquire@entrust.co.uk
Federation of Small Businesses
The FSB North East have a network in excess of 4000 members. The members have access to a wide variety of discounted services and products as well as the FSB's continual lobbying to get small businesses a fairer deal in the North East.
They campaign and outline advice for government and EU policy in order to support small businesses. An Example of this is their campaign to freeze the National Minimum Wage in 2010.
They also offer a host of branch events as well as the regional AGM. For Information on membership, events and their extensive range of support services visit www.fsb.org.uk
Finance Tree
Finance Tree offers many services to the SME. From assessing your proposal and business plan right through to introducing you to investors. They run training workshops and seminars that focus on the uses of different sources of investment such as venture capital with the aim to improve your chances of attracting investment.
They are well networked within the region and provide a range of experience in the commercial exploitation of science and technology, technology transfer and the creation and management of spin-outs and new company creation in and around research environments.
GENERATOR - Business of Music
Generator is a committed business encouraging regional music businesses at all levels from start up comapnies to those with proven comercial success. They offer a range of services some of which are listed below. For full details on these visit their website.
Transit is a bespoke national promoter development scheme that assists the professional development of grass roots live music promoters in the UK through a financial subsidy alongside core elements of training and mentorship including various forms of advisory and logistical assistance.
Advice on raising finance for a new music business through Generator specialist consultants or options to go it alone. Training courses are run with individual training programmes for music businesses across the North of England. They provide Consultancy for success in North East companies with the opportunity to develop a solid plan for future success by working alongside business experts that are able to offer invaluable guidance and experience.
Generator have recruited a pool of mentors to advise those who are serious about running a successful music business. The music clinic offers a wide range of services and reassurance to those taking the first few steps in the music industry.
There are many other services, support and facilities they offer. For full details contact mail@generator.org.uk
Girl Geeks
07817 858347Sector: All, Business & Financial services, Communications, Design/creative, Digital, Film/TV, IT/Software, Music, TechnologyGirl Geeks has been set up to support Women in business. Their particular interests are innovation, computing, technology and new media. They have a growing list of online and offline tangible services for the professional and personal development of their members across the North East Region. These include extensive networking opportunities, online blogs and a wide range of events with inspirational speakers.
Also new for 2010, they are developing workshops and a mentoring scheme to support members business needs. For more information, visit their website or email them at: mia@girl-geeks.co.uk
Go Wansbeck
Go Wansbeck helps grow local business and enterprise and to make Wansbeck a better place to work and live.
They can help:
- If you are thinking about starting your own business
- If you are ready to start your own business in Wansbeck
- If you want to grow an existing business in Wansbeck
- If you have a business you want to move into Wansbeck
They also work with schools and young people to help them develop an interest in becoming more enterprising.
The Go Wansbeck Business Support Office is the home of their business support activities, so if you would like to talk to them about any aspect of Go Wansbeck, please call us on 01670 842888 or visit their website.
The Go Wansbeck Business Support Office team as they will be pleased to hear from you!
JUST THE JOB
Sunderland has been allocated a share of the national £1.5 billion Working Neighbourhoods Fund (WNF), part of the government's drive to reduce long term unemployment and benefit dependency now and in the future in our most disadvantaged communities.
The Working Neighbourhoods Fund is a new dedicated fund to develop more concentrated, concerted approaches to getting people in the most deprived areas of England back to work. It replaces the Neighbourhoods Renewal Fund and incorporates the Department of Work and Pensions Deprived Areas Fund to create a single local fund.
Government wants all communities to share in rising prosperity and is determined to break the cycle of worklessness and a lack of economic growth in certain areas. It is part of the radical restructuring of the government's approach to regenerating some of the country's most deprived areas.
If you have any queries regarding the Fund/Strategy contact them on 0191 561 1214 or visit their website.
To look at other Sunderland City Council support click this link.
MAS North East
0191 501 8609Sector: Business & Financial services, Engineering, Manufacturing, Renewable EnergyThe Manufacturing Advisory Service is a dedicated service aiding businesses involved in the manufacturing industry.
They help any company involved in manufacturing activities, providing services such as; Free telephone support, a fully funded one-day diagnostic visit from a MAS specialist to review a company's entire manufacturing process, in-depth consultancy support to introduce improvement processes, Access to relevant industry 'best practice' visits, seminars and workshops and Referrals to specialist organisations for technical support.
Their IYRE (Improve Your Resource Efficiency) service has been set up in order to increase competitiveness and improve manufactures' environmental crudentials including; Waste reduction and management, Water use and targeted reduction, On site renewable energy and Environmental Management Systems & training.
They also host a variety of training events. To find out more contact enquiries@mas-northeast.co.uk or visit their website.
Middlesbrough Business Forum
Why Middlesbrough Business Forum?
Middlesbrough, like many towns has suffered from selected economic declines since the 1980’s as well as negative press and perceptions.
The regeneration of Middlesbrough’s built environment and economy offers a genuine opportunity for the town to be repositioned in a positive and compelling way that motivates residents, businesses and investors.
Regeneration funds are revitalising the overall town and a positive perception is being supported through the Love Middlesbrough campaign.
Middlesbrough has embraced the opportunity to be reborn as a thriving economic and cultural town not only in its own right, but also within the strategic development of other Tees Valley towns.
Middlesbrough Council alongside partner organisations places big emphasis on supporting Middlesbrough based businesses. Part of this work involves the development of a Business Forum for the town, whereby the business community can inform the council of the issues facing it and the council can consult with the business community on upcoming work, projects.
In addition, Middlesbrough Council wishes to use the Business Forum to inspire the local business community to achieve great results, and promote the fact Middlesbrough is ‘Open for Business’.
For more information email: info@middlesbroughbusinessforum.co.uk
NanoCentral
NanoCentral is driving the safe, beneficial and profitable commercialisation of nanomaterials. They are an alliance of organisations capable of providing you access to a broad range of leading edge technologies, equipment and services.
NanoCentral can provide advice and consultancy in many areas of nanomaterial development and commercialisation, including:
- Grant/funding assistance (eg FP7 and associated issues)
- Collaborative R&D project management
- Process development
- Process engineering
- SHE assurance
- Integrated Pollution Control
- Product development
- Product prototyping
- Product marketing
- Patent drafting
To see what NanoCentral can do for you visit their website.
NaREC
The New and Renewable Energy Centre (NaREC) at Blyth offers business support for new and renewable energy projects for SMEs.
The project covers a wide range of microgeneration such as solar thermal, photovoltaic, heat pumps, combined heat and power systems, wind turbines and biomass.
SME support focuses on Innovation advice and guidance to develop new and emerging micro-renewable technologies as well as providing support to encourage microrenewable uptake.
Narec funds and delivers Solutions for Business products and services. The following products are available in North East England, delivered through the projects outlined below across our core sectors:
Business Collaboration Networks
* Developing the Microrenewable Market
* North East Solar Technology and Business Development
Collaborative R&D
* North East Solar Technology and Business Development
* Marine Technology Design and Innovation
* Offshore Wind Industry sector Support
Business Growth – Specialist Facilities and Environments
* North East Solar Technology and Business Development
* Energy Markets Expansion
* Networks Development Plan
* National Wind Development Centre
* Technology Park Infrastructure
* Marine Incubation and Training
* Business Support in Microrenewables*
* Incubation and Inward Investment*
* Projects part-funded by the European Union.
Please see NaREC's sector service pages for further information.
NETPARK
NETPark Net is a virtual science park, enabling companies throughout County Durham and the North East to access the benefits of NETPark - the North East Technology Park, the UK's fastest growing Science Park. They offer a total business support environment with access to personalised content and proactive information via an online platform. As well as this, they also provide one-to-one clinics, workshops and events which cover a range of topics including law, operations and financial services that will help your business grow and flourish.
- Virtual Office Services - NETPark Net boasts a range of Virtual Office packages or individual virtual office services to suit every organisation's needs - you only pay for what you want to use. This ranges from a prestigious postal address at NETPark to flexible hot desking facilities and comfortable meeting rooms.
- Collaborate - NETPark Net creates the ideal environment for science, engineering and technology organisations to work collaboratively, develop new ideas and commercialise cutting edge technologies. Users gain access to international business networks, online communication tools and invitations to exclusive events.
- Consult - Users can access a range of services that offer tailored business advice from a panel of regional experts on areas including routes to market, access to finance and technology hunting.
- Learn - NETPark Net provides access to personalised content and information including news, events, tenders, opportunities as well as business support services such as clinics and workshops.
Contact them on netpark@wherebusinessgrows.com
Newcastle Business Forums
Who we are
Newcastle Business Forums is a free service to businesses in the city funded through the governments Working Neighbourhoods Fund. The project is hosted and directed by the DEAL group an independent locally based business engaged in business and enterprise development. Ross Waldie and Martin Preston staff the Business Forums and work from a base at the Lynnwood Business Centre in the West End. The Forums team is guided by businesses to make sure it’s the important issues and concerns faced by business that are tackled.
What we do
The Forums' aim to help your business achieve its goals. There are Business Forums meeting regularly throughout the city with a forum for the West End, East End, North And Outer West and a central steering group for Newcastle.
They provide workshops and events on the issues that businesses tell us they are interested in, from Marketing, Finance And Employment to Regeneration plans and how they affect business.
The Forums team visit businesses to provide face to face advice on topics like tendering, planning and staff training as well as providing introductions to other businesses.
The business community has a key role to play in the success of Newcastle and the Forums provide businesses with the chance to have their say on plans and initiatives.
To find out how the Forums can assist your business, please contact Ross Waldie, Business Forum Manager, on 0191 277 3070, or email info@newcastlebusinessforums
Newcastle Innovation Machine
Newcastle as a Science City is aiming to create 500 new high growth companies by 2025. To help in the drive towards this ambitious target a unique vehicle, The Newcastle Innovation Machine (NIM) has been established.
What makes NIM different is that instead of starting from an idea or a scientific discovery then seeking a market, it begins by identifying an unmet need. This could be a product of service that makes a person's life easier or alternatively a product which can be produced more cost effectively and therefore sold onto the consumer at a lower cost.
The Newcastle Innovation Machine provides the perfect environment for entrepreneur’s ideas to thrive including funding support, access to contacts and networks across the region, property allocation along with advice on areas such as IP, licensing, law, finance and marketing support. At present NSC is working with six entrepreneurs on an in-house basis, to help develop their business ideas. However, NSC is also able through the NIM business model to support entrepreneurs and science-based businesses across the North East region. To find out more about the support available click here.
The project aims to create and support high-growth innovative companies and is part financed by the European Union’s ERDF Competitiveness programme 2007-13, securing £3m of ERDF investment through the regional development agency One North East.
NOF Energy
0191 384 6464Sector: Chemical, Engineering, Manufacturing, Renewable Energy, TechnologyWhether it's supplying contacts, providing support and guidance, promoting your company to a global audience, or keeping you up-to-date with industry activities, NOF Energy membership will ensure you maintain your competitive edge. They value the experience and opinions of their members and give you the chance to shape the services of NOF Energy.
Regular consultations and feedback on the services they provide help them to remain focused and proactive with the needs of their members in mind.
To find out more about NOF Energy's services including: industry intelligence, international business support, marketing and media, and consultancy services visit their website.
If you would like to find out more about the networking and events they organise click here or contact business@nofenergy.co.uk
North East Business and Innovation Centre
The BIC is an organisation which exists to service businesses of all sizes. Their experienced advisers help hundreds of new enterprises to start up each year, and the 14-acre BIC site can accommodate over 160 companies in purpose-built offices and work spaces. They also offer an array of technical resources and support services, as well as superb meeting / conference facilities fitted with the latest video conferencing equipment.
Advice is available on all aspects of business planning, and a range of specialist subjects, including marketing, new product development, funding sources, financial and legal issues. In addition, they help to find suitable premises for your business. As part of their support provisions, they regularly stage training courses, workshops and seminars on a variety of issues relating to starting up and developing business. Examples of courses include; Software Ventures, Be Your Own Boss and Marketing Magic.
Information on these and other events or courses they offer can be found on their website.
North East of England Investment Centre (NEEIC)
The North East England Investment Centre (NEEIC) helps new and existing businesses to develop and grow. NEEIC administers a number of Solutions for Business products - such as Starting a High Growth Business, Innovation Advice and Guidance, Innovation Vouchers, Train to Gain and RDPE Business Support.
If you think you could benefit from its help, firstly, please phone Business Link for more information. An adviser will assess your needs. If you are eligible, they will support you through the application process.
Northern Defence Industries
NDI is the leading business development, marketing and project management company for the defence, aerospace and security supply network. The company supports its customers with a range of consultancy and project management interventions which are designed to create business opportunity in our core markets. The NDI has a broad network with a membership base of over 200 members providing a broad range of contacts in the industry. NDI supports supply network companies, providing access to industry-relevant events and exhibitions, creating valuable networking opportunities and raising company profiles. They provide commercial services to members and non-members in the following areas:
- Consultancy Services (including Business Process Development, Offset Support and SC21 Accreditation)
- Marketing Support (including Bid Support and Commercial Strategy Development)
- Project Management (including co-ordination of Defence Projects and MOD Supply Chain Development)
NDI has a Memorandum of Understanding with Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) and an alliance with NOF Energy. The agreements in place with these companies mean that NDI is a powerful voice for the small and medium sized companies in the UK that is heard by the Government, MOD and the Prime Contractor community.
The Marine Design Centre – the first of its kind in the UK – is a wholly owned subsidiary of NDI. It provides a focal point for the ship design industry in the North East, allowing training, development and joint project work under one roof.
Contact enquiries@ndi.org.uk for further details or visit their website.
Northern Film & Media
Northern Film & Media is the screen agency for the North East of England, providing the link between talent, experts and the market. It has partnered up with NorthStar Equity Investors to manage the £2.4m Finance for Business North East Creative Content fund.
It hosts a range of professional training events, including commissioning editors and industry experts to the region, organising workshops, seminars and courses with industry-standard training providers such as Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT), Indie Training Fund (ITF) and National Film and Television School (NFTS).
Northumberland Business Service
NBSL (Northumberland Business Service Ltd) is an Enterprise Agency based in Northumberland, operating across the county and the NE of England. Their strength is in their experience and ways of working with local, regional and national partners to build their customers a bespoke package of assistance.
Their network of high-street located Business Advice Centres house dedicated teams of staff to help you with problems faced when starting up and running a business. They can provide business advice, source useful information, and help steer your business in the right direction.
They provide a range of free business start-up and business support solutions for a range of circumstances, including:
- Guidance and development activity for individuals just thinking about self-employment
- Business skills development if you are about to, or have recently, set up in business
- Assistance to get your new business running
- Access to finance (including grants and loans) that may be available for your business
- Sourcing of business premises, including business incubation facilities and services
- Leadership and management skills development for your directors and senior managers
- Business mentoring and coaching to help you get the most out of working with us
One North East
One North East is the Regional Development Agency (RDA) covering North East England - Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, County Durham and Tees Valley. The Agency aims to help the people of the North East create and sustain jobs, prosperity and a higher quality of life.
The Agency is responsible to the people of the North East and to the Government.
One North East Tourism
One North East Tourism consists of the Tourism and Culture Team, and the Toursim Marketing Team that work closely together to support and develop tourism within North East England.
Based at the offices of One North East, the Regional Development Agency, enables One North East Tourism to work closely with a number of the Agency's departments including the Rural team, Regeneration, and Business and Enterprise to ensure the needs of the tourism sector influence their future activity and support.
Strategic Direction
- Delivering the Regional Tourism Strategy
- Setting the overall direction for the Network
- Co-ordinating One NorthEast funding for regionally significant initiatives
- Managing relationships with and between Area Tourism Partnerships (ATPs)
- Linking to VisitBritain and central government
- Advising on major tourism investment
Marketing / Market Research
- Developing, managing and co-ordinating the implementation of the Network Marketing Plan
- Co-ordinating and analysing visitor data collection
- Co-ordinating main print items for consistency, to avoid duplication and take advantage of economies of scale
- Setting up and running a regional contact centre, if feasible
Co-ordinating Network Services
- Setting and monitoring standards for Tourist Information Centres (TICs) and other visitor services
- Developing and managing Desti.ne, the regional e-business system
- Providing the framework for services for the industry (to be delivered by the ATPs)
Regionwide Initiatives
- Co-ordinating regional initiatives such as business support and skills development in tourism
- Transport initiatives to assist visitors to reach the region and access attractions and facilities
- Advising on and co-ordinating major investments in tourism attractions
RTC North
0191 516 4400Sector: Business & Financial services, Health and Social Care, Science, TechnologyRTC North is an independent company delivering initiatives and business services which support economic growth. They have significant experience over 20 years of helping start ups and SMEs to successfully take new products, technologies and services to market.
RTC North works with businesses throughout the innovation life cycle, from initial generation of ideas through feasibility, product development and business planning to market growth. They can provide extensive research and development support, helping to identify the right sources of funding and assist in proposals for EU Framework funding. RTC North also provides support for Market research, Marketing, Intellectual Property, Business Planning and International Growth. There is a host of resources available to their clients.
To find out more about the many services RTC North can offer and how they could help you, visit their website.
Solutions for Business
Sector: AllSolutions for Business (SfB) is a package of publicly funded business support products and services designed to help businesses start, grow and succeed. Solutions for Business products are simple to understand and access, good value for money and directed to where they will have most impact to help businesses grow. The right advice, loan or grant – at the right time – can make the world of difference to a business.
The full portfolio can be found clicking here.
The key Solutions for Business products are:
Understanding Finance for Business
These free training modules and workshops offer supplementary support to SMEs. They are designed to encourage individual and group interaction and participation. This is achieved through challenging you in a relaxed environment without being too overwhelming or confusing. The workshops are designed to demystify the aura that surrounds finance and commercial acumen workshops and provide a blend of theory, discussion, group presentations and experiential applied learning all within a safe, competitive and fun environment.
For further information please refer to www.financeworkshops.co.uk or call 0191 261 3812.
Coaching for High Growth
This innovative programme is run by Entrust and provides coaches or mentors for SMEs via their network of multiple providers who are matched to specific business needs of the SME. Their panel of highly experienced mentors and coaches bring industry experience, independence and objectivity to your business ambitions and goals; working with you to identify opportunities; providing links to sources of investment, and helping you make tough decisions to achieve
accelerated growth. They will help you to define your needs, select the right change agent and stay in touch afterwards to ensure that you are getting the most out of the programme.To apply for a place on the Coaching for High Growth Programme please use the online application form at www.entrust.co.uk and for further information please contact Michelle Rainbow at Entrust on 0191 244 4000 or email coaching@entrust.co.uk
Sunderland Software City
Sunderland Software City is a new initiative, based in the North East of England, designed to inspire and encourage the growth of the Software Industry in the region, and to make the area an attractive location of choice for software businesses.
They work with and support a range of software businesses, from pre-start stage up to established organisations looking to expand into new markets. In addition, they also work with companies from outside the UK who are looking to locate to the region, helping them to establish relationships and collaborative partnerships with existing regional businesses. We have developed a range of programmes and services, designed to innovate and inspire businesses at all stages of the business life cycle. You could be looking for dedicated space with connectivity and development platforms to establish your new venture. Perhaps you are seeking to move to bigger premises, with access to world-class infrastructure, or maybe you are trying to access finance to develop and move forward a new software concept. Listed below are the range of services they offer.
- Business Skills and Support
- Finance
- Technical Skills and Support
- Infrastructure
- Accessing Markets
For full information on these visit their website.
TEDCO Ltd.
A trusted and respected champion of enterprise, TEDCO has successfully helped to generate prosperity in the North East since its formation in 1984. Start-up Services Since 1984, TEDCO has offered a high quality service focused on giving individuals the knowledge and the skills they need to develop their own sustainable business. In a typical year TEDCO helps people across Tyneside and Northumberland to create more than 200 new businesses and helps over 300 businesses to develop and grow. Typically their survival rates achieve levels of 75% within 12 months of trading. TEDCO's award winning model of Local Community Business Coaching draws upon aspects of models implemented in urban communities around the world. TEDCO has worked in this area of coaching for over 10 years. Email them on enquire@tedco.org to find out how they could help you.
The Difference Engine
The Difference Engine is a full time 13 week acceleration programme which combines investment capital of £20,000 (for 8% of the business) with mentoring, support and office accommodation with various other services provided by our partners.
At the conclusion of the programme the businesses will be expected to be investor ready, and will have to present their businesses and products to a group of venture capitalists and angel investors at a demo day. The first programme commenced in March 2010 and is running from Boho One located in Middlesbrough. Their second programme will start later in 2010 and will be based from Sunderland Software City.
The Difference Engine is comparable to Y Combinator (Silicon Valley), TechStars (Boulder, Boston & Seattle) and Seedcamp (London). Outside of London, this will be the first major acceleration programme to be set up in Europe, and clearly demonstrates their ambition to help aspiring digital entrepreneurs.
CLICK ON EITHER LONDON OR NEWCASTLE TO VIEW THEIR DEMO DAYS.
The Alchemists
The Alchemists is a unique organisation that works with ambitious, fast growing, entrepreneurial companies who have reached a critical point in their development.
The Alchemists provides experienced, entrepreneurial and consultancy advice to selected companies to accelerate their rate of change, reduce the associated risk and help them achieve a major step forward in their growth.
For more Information email: info@commerce.net
A new website is currently under construction.
The Enterprise Agency
Covering County Durham, Wear Valley and Teesdale, The Enterprise Agency is a not for profit organisation offering a range of support services, business counselling, advice, training and consultancy. They deliver models of best practice and skills development to start and improve enterprises.
They have developed good working relationships with many local organisations, who may be able to support the development of your business through grant funding, loans or other financing methods.
These organisations include: County Durham Development Company, Durham County Council, Business Link North East, ONE North East, Natural England, Prince's Trust and the Arts Council.
The Agency can help you review your plans for growth and identify where potential funding may be available, then work with you and the organisation to submit applications.
Contact enquiries@theenterpriseagency.co.uk or visit their website for more information on what they could do for you.
Tyne + Wear Development Company
Tyne and Wear Development Company offers independent advice on all aspects of expansion or relocation in Tyne and Wear.
Tyne and Wear understand that getting the right support can be confusing and frustrating. Using their in-depth experience they can guide you through the processes and introduce your business to the right people at the right time.
Their free and confidential service is available to both large and small businesses and they will support you throughout your enquiry, giving you one consistent point of support.
UK Trade & Investment
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) can help you rise to the exciting opportunities and challenges that globalisation offers. They work with UK-based businesses to ensure their success in international markets.
- They offer extensive research contacts in every sector and every country.
- They offer access to the business potential offered by the main international aid funding agencies.
- They also offer sales leads and an international network of oppertunities direct to your inbox.
They have a huge network available to you and are well worth contacting at: enquiries@uktradeinvest.gov.uk
