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Two new accelerator programmes open for ambitious Somerset businesses ready to grow

Monday 22nd June, 2026

Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce is pleased to share 2 new accelerator opportunities for ambitious Somerset businesses that are ready to scale, strengthen performance and plan their next stage of growth with confidence.

With applications now open and only 8 places available on each programme, these accelerators are designed to give businesses expert support, tailored insight and a clear structure for action.

The first opportunity, the Food and Drink Accelerator, is aimed at Somerset food and drink manufacturers who are ready to tackle the real challenges of scaling, from production and margins to winning new customers. The programme is designed for businesses with 6 or more employees, 3 or more years of trading, and plans for significant growth.

The programme includes a 1 to 1 business diagnostic to identify key challenges across operations, people, finance and markets, 3 masterclasses covering production scaling, financial management, team development and growing sales, and 6 hours of tailored 1 to 1 mentoring from an experienced industry specialist.

Alongside this, the Somerset SME High Growth Accelerator has opened for Somerset businesses with 8 or more employees, 3 or more years of trading, and clear plans for significant growth or change in the next 6 to 12 months.

This programme is designed for businesses that are serious about achieving high growth and want structured support to overcome barriers, improve performance and accelerate measurable results. It includes a 1 to 1 strategic business diagnostic to identify key growth constraints and set clear, actionable KPIs, 2 structured workshops focused on improving performance and driving growth, a peer group collaboration and support network, and 6 hours of tailored 1 to 1 mentoring based on each business’s diagnostic needs.

Both programmes are positioned as focused, high impact opportunities for local businesses that are ready to move forward with purpose and make meaningful changes in how they grow.

Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce is encouraging eligible businesses to review the criteria carefully and consider whether one of these programmes could help them unlock their next phase of development.

The deadline to apply for both programmes is 12 July 2026.

To apply:

Food and Drink Accelerator

Somerset SME High Growth Accelerator

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