If you’re a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur in West Oxfordshire or Cherwell, then we’ve got just the thing for you! The West Oxfordshire and Cherwell Business Support Programmes are back! These fully funded initiatives, the Business Accelerator and Business Spark programmes, are designed to help you grow, whether you’re scaling an existing business or launching that idea you’ve been wanting to explore!
Nearly 100 entrepreneurs went through the first phase of the Spark programme in 2024, with over 50 now running their own businesses! In addition, 230 businesses completed the Accelerator programme, gaining the tools and confidence to thrive.
Fat Squirrel, an outdoor experience business with a passion for connecting people and nature, found new energy through the West Oxfordshire Business Accelerator Programme - ‘The webinar itself was quite dynamic, the guys were really interesting and had lots of expert advice. It has really refocussed my attention, we’ve attracted a lot more businesses into the wood.’ Watch the full video to see how their journey unfolded. (Please note: Enterprise Oxfordshire was trading as OxLEP at the time the 2024 programme was delivered.)
The Business Accelerator Programme: For Ambitious Businesses Ready to Grow
The Accelerator Programme is designed for businesses that are already trading and looking to scale. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs who want to grow sustainably and strategically with expert guidance.
Who is it for?
- Registered businesses already trading in West Oxfordshire or Cherwell
- Business owners seeking structured support to scale operations
What to expect:
- A tailored 3-year Business Growth Action Plan
- Expert-led workshops and masterclasses on innovation, leadership, and growth
- One-to-one support on productivity, innovation and funding
- Peer-to-peer learning and networking with over 100 local business leaders
- Guidance on accessing funding and investment opportunities
Learn more and get involved:
West Oxfordshire Accelerator Programme
Cherwell Accelerator Programme
The Business Spark Programme: For New Ideas and Early-Stage Entrepreneurs
The Spark Programme is perfect for individuals who are just starting out or exploring a new business idea. It helps you build a solid foundation and turn your concept into a viable business.
Who is it for?
- Aspiring entrepreneurs in West Oxfordshire or Cherwell who are exploring starting a business or a side hustle.
- Individuals with a new business idea or early-stage start-up located in West Oxfordshire or Cherwell, seeking guidance to grow their venture.
What to expect:
- Support with business fundamentals, customer understanding, marketing and sales
- Financial planning and a first-year action plan
- Webinars, events and one-to-one mentoring
- Access to resources and signposting
- Opportunities to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs
Learn more and get involved:
West Oxfordshire Spark Programme
Both programmes are delivered by Enterprise Oxfordshire and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. They are part of a wider mission to support local economic growth and innovation in West Oxfordshire and Cherwell.
As Helen Brind, Growth Hub Manager at Enterprise Oxfordshire, explains:
“These programmes offer a real opportunity to budding business-owners and up-and-coming start-ups in these districts to take the next steps in their business journey.”
Ultimately, whether you’re just starting out with a new idea or you’re ready to kick your existing business into high gear, the West Oxfordshire and Cherwell Spark and Accelerator programmes have the support and resources you need. So, join the hundreds of entrepreneurs and businesses who have already been boosted by this support and grab this chance to give your business the boost it deserves and turn those dreams into something real and thriving!
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