Launched at the start of 2022, Cumbria Chamber Enterprise Network (CCEN) is looking to be able to offer financial support to Cumbria’s next entrepreneurs. But we can’t do it on our own!!

We’re reaching out to the local business community and entrepreneurs who have successfully launched and are running their own business(es) to raise funds to offer grants to those looking to start their own business or in the first three years of trading. It’s the most common enquiry received by Cumbria Business Growth Hub and it’s a gap we’re keen to fill with the help of the Cumbrian business community.

Grants will be for between £1,000 to £5,000, just enough to help get started and fund for example, equipment, training, qualifications, transport, marketing materials….

Depending on the level of funds received, we hope to offer some bigger grants of £10,000 which will be pitched for Dragon’s Den style. Those who invest the cash will decide who receives these grants.

There’s no cap on the amount you can pledge, every little helps and all funds will be used to give back to the next generation of entrepreneurs who will add to Cumbria’s economy and bring a whole new level of passion and ideas to the county.

If you can’t help financially but would like to be involved in other ways, we’re looking for experts to present on various topics and sponsors for our network events.

Anyone interested in a conversation to find out more and become involved contact Lesley Robinson – lesleyr@cumbriachamber.co.uk or call 07876861266.