Contracts have been awarded for the Welsh Government’s £17m Business Start-Up Service which could create 6,500 new jobs in the next three years.
Welsh Government business minister Edwina Hart will make the announcement today (wed) with the scheme due to help establish 2,000 new growth businesses across Wales.
The Welsh Government also hope the Business Start-Up Service, which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund, will help 6,000 people to become self-employed during the three-year period.
Mrs Hart said support will be targeted at newly established businesses and entrepreneurs on the brink of starting businesses with growth potential, graduate start-ups as well as those wanting to become self-employed.
She said: "The creation of new businesses with growth potential is more important than ever to create jobs and stimulate the economy during these challenging times, while self-employment can offer an important route out of economic inactivity.
"The Welsh Government is committed to supporting businesses and encouraging entrepreneurship. The importance we place on this is reflected by the budget allocated to this initiative.
"We know that in order to survive and thrive young businesses need dedicated professional support and advice covering a wide range of business areas. The Business Start-Up Service will provide that high level support."
The new Business Start-Up contracts, which start today, have been awarded to five lead providers who will deliver a raft of business support and one-to-one advice sessions in six geographical regions throughout Wales.
In South Wales, Business in Focus will cover south east Wales, with Centre for Business covering the Heads of the Valleys and Bridgend region.
Mrs Hart will announce the new contracts and funding package today when addressing Business in Focus’ annual general meeting.
Support available under the start up service will range from developing business ideas to workshops in business planning, managing finance and marketing, with ongoing support over two years for growth start ups and two reviews over twelve months for those self-employed.
For more information on the programme click here, or visit the centre for business website.
