Somerset Start Up Resources

Thank you for enquiring about the Somerset Start Up and Grow programme. This support has proved to be extremely popular, and unfortunately, this means we are not able to accept any more pre-start businesses for our one-to-one support. However, we can offer you some great resources - including free online workshops - that will help you to explore your business idea further.
Somerset Start Up & Grow logo
Access the Carbon Action Fund

By going through EDCAP or our other green business support programme, Prosper, you will be able to apply for the Carbon Action Fund.

Businesses and community organisations can now apply to the Carbon Action Fund for decarbonisation equipment recommended as part of a carbon action plan.

Read the full details here and contact us about getting your carbon action plan in place, so you can submit a strong application.

Eco aware business owner outside her shop
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CARBON ACTION FUND
Look out for our upcoming events

Roadshows across East Devon
Held at local venues throughout East Devon, our inspiring roadshows feature motivational speakers, networking opportunities, showcase companies and topical workshops.

There is no cost to you - the programme is fully funded by East Devon District Council. So, if you're keen to reduce your carbon emissions and develop your organisation in a way that is fit for the future, we're here to help.

Events

Today

Free workshops & courses

Take a look at the practical and informative workshops available to you, free of charge.

Co-workers looking at a chart on a wall
Designing & Delivering Value-Driven Products & Services
20 January at 1.30 pm | Online
Learn how to make sure your products and services are what customers really want by using insights, rapid testing and tools that will get your business off to a flying start.
If you would like to book onto this workshop, please complete the Client Registration Form. It will only take a few minutes, and once we have received it, we can send you the link to register your free place.
Group of start-up owners together
2026 Course: Enterprising Together

A new Somerset Council fully-funded course launching in January and offering the opportunity for local residents to transform their idea into an actual business through support and weekly mentoring. Courses take place on a Friday at the Edventure Hub, Frome from 16 January to 12  June, 2026.

FIND OUT MORE

Launch Pad Pre-Start/Start Up Video Series

Somerset Council's Launch Pad Start-up Programme provides a series of pre-start/start-up videos on a wide range of topics, such as Developing a Business Plan, Finance and Intellectual Property, as well as Digital Marketing and Creating a Website.
EXPLORE THE VIDEOS
Man designing his business website on his computer

Business Advice and Grant Finder

A person celebrating with arms up in front of their laptop

You can also contact the Heart of the South West Growth Hub, which will be able to advise you on any other support programmes that may be available to you. Or perhaps you want to see if there is any funding available for your new business idea - in which case, you may want to check the Heart of the Southwest Grant Finder.

Funding and delivery partners

Somerset Start Up & Grow is funded by Somerset Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local businesses, people and skills.

The Somerset Start Up & Grow programme is being delivered by Business Information Point, North Devon Plus and Cosmic.

Funding and delivery partners for the Somerset Start Up & Grow programme