News

October 30, 2009

Budding entrepreneurs from under-represented groups get support in Cornwall

Would-be entrepreneurs from under-represented groups in Cornwall are being offered free support to enable them to set up and grow a business thanks to a £2.2m government-funded programme launched this month.

Outset Cornwall, funded by ERDF Convergence and the South West Regional Development Agency, aims to help 185 entrepreneurs start up and create 280 jobs in the region during the next three years. Those eligible for the scheme include women, people with disabilities, people from ethnic minorities and the over 50s.

The scheme will support start-ups in four stages. Informal workshops will help budding entrepreneurs decide if running a business is right for them. ‘Introduction to Enterprise’ sessions will help people develop their business idea. A start-up programme aims to equip people with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed, while subsequent workshops have been created to encourage business growth.

Business development company YTKO will run the Start-up programme. Eileen Lennon, the organisation’s head of enterprise said: “The barriers for people from under-represented groups are well-researched and documented.
“We always start with information sessions, which involves having a chat with people and telling them about the programme. Initially, people get the opportunity to just come along and find out if enterprise could be the route for them.”
The workshops will take place in Bodmin, Bude, Cambourne, Truro, Penzance and elsewhere.

• For more information the Outset Cornwall website.