FIRST

We are an accredited learning and development agency specialising in empowering enterprise skills for students, graduates, jobseekers, early stage founders and entry level staff.

Provided by: First

FIRST is an accredited learning agency providing communities with practical enterprise and entrepreneurial experiences to develop leadership and progression skills. FIRST encourages and empowers students, job seekers, aspiring and early-stage business owners, and professionals to discover their passion, develop their enterprise skills, explore opportunities/ideas, gather, and evaluate resources, and turn their plans into actions.

Early Stage Founders

FIRST provides dedicated support to ambitious founders and is actively working to enhance startup business rates and essential skills.

They offer a range of valuable resources including:

• Workshops and Training
• Community Network Events
• Pitching Competitions
• Bespoke Activities

Find out more.

Business Taster Course

• Learn at your own pace with practical workshops on public speaking, pitching, market research and networking
• Enjoy a friendly 1:1 review call and receive a certificate recognising your progress
• A great first step before starting a business or applying for jobs
• Free and exclusive to FIRST

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Level One Business Course

• Build courage to explore self-employment or a career change
• Learn how to network and promote your skills
• Gain insight into the risks and rewards of starting a business
• Complete workbooks to gain an accreditation from SFEDI
• Receive personalised guidance from our experienced team
• Friendly enrolment process with flexible, in-person or online sessions
• Ideal if you're unsure about your next steps or looking for a fresh start

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Level Two Business Course

• Bring your business plan to life with expert guidance
• Learn how to market, present and promote your ideas
• Build your customer service and negotiation skills
• Work with others and pitch your business
• Complete workbooks to gain an accreditation from SFEDI
• Flexible sessions available online or in-person, day or evening
• Perfect if you're ready to launch or grow your business
• Access to an exclusive (pre-recorded) advanced course after completion

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Startup Awards North East

Startup Awards North East provides a platform for those interested in starting a business and business owners/founders to showcase their business ideas, network with like-minded entrepreneurs, connect with experts and investors, and compete for prizes that empower positive business actions.

For more information and to register your interest, please click here.