Latest news

Barrow residents and businesses can now access free one-to-one advice, mentoring and funding support through Enterprising Cumbria’s new Cumbria Accelerator programme. Led by adviser Donna Dacre, it offers tailored guidance for start-ups and growing enterprises, including a £500 pre-start grant to help new ideas get off the ground.

With support from the Cumbria Accelerator Programme, Sachin and Shubha turned their popular food trailer, Dosa Chaska, into a nationwide frozen curry subscription service. Guided by advisor Colin Bell, they transformed customer demand into a scalable, sustainable business bringing authentic South Indian flavours to homes across the UK.

Read the 12th November 2025 edition of the Enterprising Cumbria Newsletter.

With help from Andrea Whigham and the Cumbria Accelerator Programme, Julie switched to Freetobook, simplifying her B&B’s bookings, payments, and guest communication. The changes brought more direct bookings, smoother operations, and her best year yet, giving her greater ease and peace of mind.

A major employment initiative in Cumbria has reached a key milestone with the appointment of a Service Co-ordinator for the £10 million Cumbria Connect to Work programme. Set to launch in early 2026, the scheme aims to support 3,000 people across the county into employment. Leading local charity Inspira has been chosen to deliver the programme in partnership with Cumberland and Westmorland & Furness Councils through Enterprising Cumbria.

A new careers toolkit has been launched aimed at inspiring students across the region to explore careers in Allied Health Professions (AHPs).

Read the 29th October 2025 edition of the Enterprising Cumbria Newsletter.

Cumbria Accelerator helps freelancer, Kevin McCourt, refocus, take stock and look forward to the future thanks to the Business Support Programme funded by the Department for Business and Trade.

An exciting and immersive Food Technology event for Year 11 students took place at Kendal College, welcoming over 40 GCSE Food Technology students and their teachers from five South Lakes secondary schools.

Read the 15th October 2025 edition of the Enterprising Cumbria Newsletter.