Stockport Council is launching a new Investment programme, Ready to Grow, a £40k investment pot to encourage people to try out new ideas in the market place.
Through the Ready to Grow investment scheme, local entrepreneurs, voluntary groups, charities and private businesses can apply for an investment of up to £5k to develop their enterprise or organisation in a way that will deliver real social value to Stockport communities.
The programme aims to achieve growth in the social sector and equip organisations to be better prepared for the future. The programme will not only provide an investment to make new ideas happen, but also provide support to new and aspiring social entrepreneurs along the way. Successful applicants will be matched with a mentor or buddy to give them the best chance of success. And help is also available with the application process to anyone new to this type of investment.
Councillor Sheila Bailey, Executive Member for Communities and Housing said:
“As a Council we are committed to helping communities thrive and grow. The Ready to Grow scheme allows people to apply for funding in order to help their communities for years to come.
“The scheme also offers mentorship and advice throughout the whole application process. By supporting these people and by offering an opportunity to further develop and progress what communities have a passion for, we hope this scheme will unlock their potential and provide the mechanism needed to evolve grass root groups to become the new enterprises in Stockport.”
To find out more contact Thad Barker at Stockport Council or call 0161 474 3330.
Stockport Council’s Growth team also help with Start-up loans, available from £500 to £25,000 at 6% APR coupled with a package of support that includes:
- support with business plans and cash flow forecasts
- start-up workshops and one to one business support
- a professional business mentoring service, post loan
- access to free PR services
- special business offers from partners Intuit, Paypal, eBay and many more
Who it’s for
The scheme is aimed at individuals who are starting a business or who have been trading for less than 24 months. The funding is provided through the Start Up Loans Company, a government-funded initiative that provides start up support in the form of a repayable loan, together with a business mentor for entrepreneurs across England and Northern Ireland.