01278 228004

Chamber News

You are here: 

Free Somerset Start Up and Grow support available for small businesses in 2026

Friday 12th December, 2025

Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce highlights fully funded one to one business support for Somerset based start ups and growing firms

As many local businesses start planning for a stronger and more resilient 2026, Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce is signposting small businesses in Somerset to fully funded support available through the Somerset Start Up and Grow programme.

The programme offers free, expert guidance for individuals and businesses that are either operating in, or located in, Somerset. It is open to start ups finding their feet and to existing businesses that want to grow. Bath and North East Somerset is excluded from this support.

Somerset Start Up and Grow provides up to six hours of one to one support, alongside access to a range of interactive workshops. Businesses can receive help with:

  • Business strategy and planning
  • Finance and operations
  • Marketing and HR
  • Innovation and market diversification

The aim is to equip business owners with essential knowledge and tools to tackle their challenges and achieve their goals. Support can include clarifying direction, identifying growth opportunities, developing an action plan, strengthening cash flow, improving marketing and streamlining systems.

With the end of the year approaching, businesses are encouraged to sign up before Christmas so they can enter the new year with a clear, personalised support plan in place and be ready to hit the ground running in January.

Somerset Start Up and Grow is funded by Somerset Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This national fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the United Kingdom by investing in communities and place, supporting local businesses, and developing people and skills.

Small businesses and individuals who would like to find out more or register their interest can:

  • Visit businessinfopoint.co.uk/ssug
  • Call 01837 659 059

Latest news

Environment Agency launches consultation on Hinkley Point C permit variation
June 6, 2026

The Environment Agency has launched a public consultation on an application from NNB Generation Company (HPC) Limited to change part of Hinkley Point C’s environmental permit relating to the operation of its standby diesel generators. This consultation is not about construction activity on site. It relates specifically to the permit required for combustion activities during…

Read More
UCS College Group Awards Night Recognises Skills, Resilience and Partnerships
June 6, 2026

On Wednesday 20 May 2026, UCS College Group held their very first Industry Skills Awards ceremony at The McMillan Theatre, with their host, Lucy Hawkins, Group Director of Future Skills and Growth. The event brought together their employer partners, T Level students, apprentices, supported employment students and staff for an evening of celebration. The Industry…

Read More
Sedgemoor Chamber launches new Chamber Chat podcast
May 29, 2026

Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the launch of its new podcast, The Chamber Chat Podcast, giving members and the wider business community a new way to hear more about the Chamber’s work, local business issues and the people behind it all. The first episode features Roger Smith, General Manager of Sedgemoor Chamber…

Read More
SWEF Enterprise Grants open for young entrepreneurs in Somerset
May 22, 2026

Delivered locally by Somerset Community Foundation, the grants are aimed at people aged 18 to 30 who need financial support to either start a business or take an early stage venture to the next level. There are 2 funding routes available. A Start-Up Grant offers up to £500 for businesses that are close to becoming…

Read More