Cumbria Business Growth Hub has recently been awarded grant funding to deliver a programme of business support aimed specifically at refugees and asylum seekers in Allerdale and Copeland.
Support includes group adviser support, an introduction to self-employment course, three-day business start-up course and other free training – all with the aim of providing the skills and knowledge to set-up and start a successful business.
Lesley Robinson, Head of Business Support, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce says “Following conversations with a local agency I was made aware of pockets of people with the skills and qualifications to run a business in their home country, they really want to run a business here in Cumbria but don’t have a clue where to start and how to set up. We’re delighted to have been awarded a grant to deliver this specific business support programme. Nowhere in the county is there a support programme for these underrepresented client groups, so it’s a great privilege to be able to give the advice, support and guidance needed to ensure businesses start up legally, can make a profit, and are given the best possible chance of success.”
As part of this programme there will also be awareness raising activity within the local communities to stimulate interest and desire in self-employment allowing people to consider it as an option to explore further.
“The UKSPF – E23 Strengthening Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Fund was set up to help people into work or self-employment. This project improves access to employment and training opportunities and will inspire, encourage, and nurture entrepreneurial refugees, boosting community cohesion.” Annalee Holliday, Senior Grants, Programmes and Communications Officer with Cumbria Community Foundation.
The first in person three-day business start-up course runs on 18th, 19th and 25th April from 9.30am to 1pm at Whitehaven Foyer, Irish Street, Whitehaven (translator support will be provided).
There’s also some free training sessions already booked in covering areas such as marketing plans, digital marketing essentials, personal survival budgets/profit & loss/cashflow and how to write a simple business plan.
Anyone interested in finding out more email info@cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk or visit our dedicated website page for more information.
The Refugee and asylum seeker self-employment programme is funded by a grant from Cumbria Community Foundation through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund with funds made available by Allerdale Borough Council and Copeland Borough Council.
