Rural business support in Gateshead

Rural business support in Gateshead (Part of the North East Rural Growth Programme (2026-2029)

Gateshead's rural businesses can now access free, specialist business support through the North East Rural Growth Programme - a new three‑year programme running from April 2026 to March 2029.

The programme is delivered in Gateshead by Gateshead Council, working in partnership with Northumberland County Council, the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, and specialist rural and sector organisations.

Its aim is to help rural businesses start, grow, diversify and become more resilient, while supporting jobs, innovation and sustainable growth in our rural communities. Over the life of the programme, the Rural Growth Programme will support hundreds of businesses, help create new jobs, and strengthen rural economies across the North East.

Who is this programme for?

• businesses located in rural Gateshead
• micro and small businesses
• farming and land‑based businesses
• food and drink producers
• rural residents aged 16+ looking to start a business (including social enterprises)
• businesses on the urban fringe with strong links to rural supply chains (for example farming, food, forestry)

What support is available

Rural businesses can access free one‑to‑one advice tailored to their needs, including:

• business planning and growth strategies
• financial forecasting and investment readiness
• marketing, sales and digital development
• workforce recruitment and retention
• productivity and resilience planning

Eligible wards

• Chopwell and Rowlands Gill
• Crawcrook and Greenside
• Lamesley
• Ryton, Crookhill and Stella
• Whickham South and Sunniside
• Winlaton and High Spen