The largest ever business start up programme in Cornwall has been launched.
The Breakthrough programme helps local entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into viable opportunities, with £7million of funding being poured into the project. It’s set to create thousands of new jobs, and also generate millions of pounds in new revenue for the Duchy by 2018.
Unlocking Potential Programme Director, Allyson Glover, explained “We believe that the lives of people in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly can be transformed through this programme and Breakthrough is there to kick start a new generation of dynamic growth businesses in the county.”
The team behind Breakthrough have already made waves in Cornwall business. Over the past 10 years they have helped hundreds of business owners launch and develop their businesses, and they have also helped boost the local economy by £60million.
The scheme will consist of regular, fully-funded, two-day workshops that will run throughout the county. There will also be one-on-one coaching, follow on support, ongoing workshops, and peer-to-peer support. Workshops and coaching will be carried out by experienced business coaches and specialist mentors.
The service is delivered by business support specialists Oxford Innovation, alongside Unlocking Potential; a company that helps start ups and existing businesses in Cornwall. The programme is funded by the European Regional Growth Fund, a type of EU funded scheme that could be at risk due to Brexit.
Sarah Wilkinson, Breakthrough Programme Manager, Oxford Innovation, said “The Breakthrough Programme is going to make a huge difference, providing a unique mix of dedicated help and support to budding entrepreneurs wanting to take their ideas and turn them into a reality.
“The programme is not there to preach or tell people what they should be doing. Instead, it has been designed to cultivate natural capability by sharing knowledge and practical experience, instilling confidence to turn ideas into excellent new businesses, and facilitating and enabling that through a range of dedicated, tailored support.”
For more information on the Breakthrough Programme visit www.breakthroughcornwall.co.uk