Business support
Start a business
Our start-up programme
Thinking about starting your own business, or just getting your new venture off the ground? The Shropshire Growth Hub can support you every step of the way.
Join our relaxed start-up workshops, get advice from experienced mentors, and boost your skills with our marketing and social media sessions. Whether you’re exploring a business idea or have just begun your journey, our programme is designed just for you.
Ready to take the next step? Get in touch at growthhub@shropshire.gov.uk and let’s get your business adventure started!
Start-up loan
If you’re starting a business, you might need funding to get your idea off the ground. A start-up loan could be a great option.
A start-up loan helps new businesses cover early costs – like equipment, marketing, or premises – so you can get off the ground with confidence. It’s not a grant, so you’ll repay it over time, but usually with low interest.
We can help you find the right loan and guide you through the process.
Grow a business
Business Boost 360 – free support to help you take that next step
Your next chapter starts here. Running a business can be exciting – but also a bit overwhelming at times. That’s where Business Boost 360 comes in. We offer up to 6 hours of free, one-to-one support to help you grow with confidence, right here in Shropshire.
Thinking about growing your team, moving to a bigger place, exploring new markets, or chasing ambitious business goals? Our team knows their stuff and is ready to help.
We can support you with business planning, finance, funding, marketing, branding, and social media. Need help with HR, health & safety, or data protection? We’ve got that covered too. We even offer advice on sustainability, cyber security, podcasting, and video content.
You’ll also be invited to join our Masterclass sessions – great for picking up new skills and ideas to help your business thrive.
Sadly, at the moment this programme is not available but keep checking our web pages or sign up for our newsletter to find out if and when the programme will be available again. Alternatively, simply get in touch.
Grants & funding
Funding can transform what’s possible for your business
From launching new ideas to expanding your reach. We’ll help you find it, apply for it, and make it work for you.
At the Shropshire Growth Hub, we keep track of the latest grants, loans, and funding schemes available locally and nationally.
We’ll help you discover what you might be eligible for, guide you through the application process, and make sure you’ve got the right information to give your business the best chance of success.
Funding can help with all sorts of things – from buying equipment and hiring staff to launching new products or improving your digital presence.
It’s not always easy to know where to start, but that’s what we’re here for.
Current loans, funding and grants include:
- Start-up loan – government-backed unsecured personal loan for starting or growing a business, with free mentoring included.
- Small Capital Grant Scheme – from £2,000 to £10,000 for small or medium businesses to buy new equipment or improve premises. (Currently closed; may reopen September 2025)
- West Midlands Grant Programme (WMPG) – £2,500 to £100,000 for established businesses ready to upgrade or expand.
- Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) – free energy check-ups plus 50% match-funded grants to help you save costs and grow sustainably.
We can also connect you with fully funded programmes like:
- Sustaining Shropshire – for food, drink, and agri-tech businesses.
- Design Factory Shropshire – for design, digital, and IT support.
Services from
Shropshire Growth Hub
Taking care of your business