Funding & support resources

Support designed to help individuals looking to start their own business or in the early stage of trading.

Discover how to convert an existing business or organisation to a co‑operative

Powering the next generation of digital creators in the North East

The NatWest Accelerator supports and empowers UK entrepreneurs to scale their businesses to the next level.

Join the 91,000+ young people we’ve helped to start a business.

New for 2026, Venture Connect is opening the door to innovative businesses across the UK and internationally for the first time.

Fully funded, short, online business start-up and self-employment courses

Apprenticeships Made Simple for Small Business

Support for small businesses, serious about growth.

The Business Academy’s live events and on-demand videos connect you with expert support and help you master new skills for your business.

The Diplomatic Advisory Hub's Hub’s expert team offers British SMEs strategic insight and connections, so that they can feel more confident to do business overseas.

Gateshead BIG is a brand new programme, delivered exclusively by Smarta, for established companies based in Gateshead that have ambitions to scale-up their operations.

Digital Catapult has launched this state-of-the-art 5G Immersive Lab in partnership with the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority to break down the barriers to digital adoption in the North East.

Build a more inclusive workplace Fully funded support for North East employers

Helping innovative digital businesses across the North East to collaborate, commercialise and attract finance.

The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority’s North East Ambition programme supports businesses and employers to work collaboratively with schools and colleges.