Rochford District Council, in partnership with the Let’s Do Business Group, has launched a new initiative called ‘Innovate & Elevate Rochford District’ to support local business growth and innovation.
The ‘Innovate & Elevate Rochford District’ Business Growth Programme is designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the district strengthen their resilience, adopt new technologies and develop the leadership skills needed to drive long-term success.
Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the programme gives businesses access to over £2,000 worth of expert-led training and mentoring, completely free of charge.
Open to all Rochford District-based businesses, Innovate & Elevate Rochford District offers a blend of practical support and strategic guidance, including:
- 1-to-1 business advice
- Funding and finance guidance
- Grant writing workshops
- Networking and peer-to-peer sessions
At the heart of the programme is The Elevation Lab, a dedicated Business Leadership Accelerator designed for 20 ambitious Rochford District business owners and managers ready to take their business to the next level.
Participants in The Elevation Lab will access a series of face-to-face workshops covering:
- Innovation: Building a Future-Ready Business
- Funding Innovation: Finance Readiness and Success
- Marketing for Growth: Growing Your Business Through Marketing
- Pitch Perfect: Communicating Your Innovation Story
Each participant will also receive:
- 3 hours of personalised mentoring
- Ongoing 1:1 business support
- Access to a Demo Day Pitch Event
- Post-programme support
Councillor Daniel Efde, Chair of the Economic Development, Regeneration and Tourism Committee at Rochford District Council, said: “Innovate & Elevate Rochford District is about turning ambition into action. This programme is a unique opportunity for anyone with a dream to gain the tools, confidence and guidance needed to succeed. By providing free expert support, practical workshops, and access to funding, we’re empowering local entrepreneurs to transform ideas into thriving businesses and strengthen our community’s economic future.”
Ross Moran, Business Advisor from Let’s Do Business Group added, “The Elevation Lab is all about helping business leaders build confidence and capability. Whether you’re exploring R&D, seeking investment, or looking to strengthen your strategy, this programme gives you the practical tools and expert support to make it happen.”
Applications are now open for eligible Rochford District-based businesses. Places on The Elevation Lab are limited to 20 participants, so early registration is encouraged.
Find out more and apply: https://www.backingessexbusiness.co.uk/innovate-and-elevate-rochford-district