‘Somerset Start Up and Grow’ programme

Published on: 2nd September 2025

Delivered by Business Information Point (BIP), North Devon Plus, and Cosmic, the Somerset Start Up and Grow programme provides new and early-stage businesses with expert one-to-one support, workshops, and practical tools to get started and grow. And its free! 

Participants begin with a one-to-one session via video call with an experienced business adviser to talk through their ideas and plans. They’ll then be supported to complete a comprehensive business plan that covers all the essential aspects to start and grow a sustainable business. 

There will also be the opportunity to attend workshops on a range of topics such as marketing strategies, using AI for productivity, building customer relationships and more. This will be followed by a final review with recommendations, and signposting to other regional support and funding schemes. 

And it’s not only for those looking to start a business. Existing small businesses with fewer than 250 employees can also benefit, receiving a diagnostic review and bespoke Support and Growth Action Plan to strengthen their strategy, marketing, HR and finance, in addition to support with any other challenges they may be facing. 

In a nutshell: 

  • It’s free to anyone in the Somerset Council area 
  • The programme provides up to 6 hours of one-to-one advice and access to additional, free workshops 
  • It helps people take their ideas from concept to trading – and supports existing small businesses to grow. 

If you know someone starting out – or running a small business and looking for help – please tell them about Somerset Start Up and Grow. They can register now through BIP’s Somerset Start Up and Grow page and start their journey with professional, local support.