Free expert support to help Barrow businesses start and grow

Barrow residents and business owners can now access free one-to-one advice and funding support through a new initiative designed to help local enterprises start, grow and thrive.

Delivered by Enterprising Cumbria as part of the Cumbria Accelerator: Business Growth & Innovation Programme, the service offers tailored support for people at every stage of their business journey.

Whether you are just starting out or ready to take your business to the next level, the programme provides practical guidance, mentoring and access to funding. The fully funded support is available to individuals and businesses based in the Barrow area, with sessions led by Donna Dacre, Enterprising Cumbria’s dedicated local business adviser. 

Donna said, “There’s a real energy in Barrow at the moment, with more people looking to work for themselves or grow what they’ve already built. This programme is about giving them the support and confidence to do it well. Every business has different goals, and our advice is tailored to help them take clear, manageable steps forward.”

Through the Cumbria Accelerator programme, businesses and pre-starts can access free, tailored guidance and mentoring to support innovation, expansion and business planning. The programme also provides advice on funding opportunities and applications, alongside practical help to build confidence, networks and new skills.

For those in the early stages of starting a business, the programme also offers a £500 pre-start grant to help with initial costs such as equipment, marketing or materials.

Donna added, “For someone taking that first step into business, the £500 grant can make a big difference. It’s often the little boost people need to get their idea off the ground.”

The Cumbria Accelerator: Business Growth & Innovation Programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supporting local people and businesses to unlock new opportunities and strengthen the local economy.

Barrow residents and business owners are encouraged to get in touch to learn more about the free support available and how it could benefit their plans.

Email donna.dacre@enterprisingcumbria.org.uk for more information, or visit www.cumbriaaccelerator.co.uk