Starting your own business?
With free support for entrepreneurs with big ideas, you’re in the best place possible if you want to start your own business – The Growth Hub provides fully funded personalised support for businesses at all stages of growth. Plus, with excellent higher education facilities, you’ve got everything you need to become the next big thing.
National Support

The Princes Trust
Support to start a business
If you’re aged 18–30 and are planning on starting your own business, the Prince’s Trust can help make your dreams a reality.
Visit their websiteNatWest Business Matters
Supporting your business goals
Learn how to get your business off the ground with practical tips and advice, helping you to plan, set up and make it through the first six months.
Visit their websiteThe Start Up Donut
Start-up and SME resources
The Start Up Donut offers a broad range of resources for those considering starting their own business, with success stories, ideas and advice.
Visit their website
Local Support

The Growth Hub
Local business support
The Growth Hub offers free help and advice for businesses of every size in Gloucestershire, and hosts a range of workshops and events.
Visit their websiteStart and Grow Enterprise
Free support for new businesses
Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur or are planning on starting a new business, Start and Grow Enterprise offers training, courses and advice.
Visit their websiteLibrary Growth Hub Network
Free use of the Library Growth Hub Network
The 31 Gloucestershire County Council run libraries are tier 3 Growth Hubs which means that staff are familiar with the Growth Hub website, have knowledge of local groups that support businesses and have a range of books, eBooks and eAudiobooks relating to interview techniques, starting a business, management etc.
Visit their website
Learning and Training

Adult Education in Gloucestershire
Training courses and workshops
Make sure you have all the skills you need to start your business with a range of courses, workshops and qualifications.
Visit their websiteGloucestershire College
Business Hub
The GC Business Hub is dedicated to supporting local businesses with employee training and apprenticeship programmes.
Visit their websiteSouth Gloucestershire and Stroud College
Business studies
Learn the fundamentals of business with full, part and degree-level courses.
Visit their websiteUniversity of Gloucestershire
School of Business
Boost practical, professional and personal skills with short courses, and get access to local talent.
Visit their website