In 2026 the Shropshire Growth Hub will launch The Co-Work Hub to support freelancers, creatives, remote workers, and small business owners.

The Shropshire Growth Hub’s programmes and delivery are made possible through external funding from government contracts and grants.

The Co-Work Hub will offer a co-working environment where attendees can work independently but still have the benefits of company, community and collaboration with other new and small business owners. It will provide a ‘welcoming space’ where individuals can share experiences and access informal guidance from an expert-in-residence over a coffee.

Steve Periton, solopreneur and founder of ‘Nodsboy’, has played a key role in shaping this initiative. His experience and insight have helped ensure the Co-Work Hub meets the real needs of early-stage and small businesses in Shropshire.

Steve Periton said:

“We are creating a space where founders can work, connect and grow together without the pressure of formal networking. It fills a real gap for small businesses in Shropshire, offering both community and practical support.”

Steve is keen to continue his support of the development of the programme and help guide its future direction.

Rob Wilson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Economic Growth, said:

“Launching a new business can feel daunting and risky, but Shropshire stands out in the West Midlands with its strong business survival rate.

“We believe the Shropshire Growth Hub has played a meaningful role in this achievement through its innovative approach and openness to new ideas. Its strength lies in working closely with the very people it wants to help, staying connected and informed about local small business needs, and then delivering the necessary support.”

The pilot series will run at Shrewsbury Flaxmill on 27 February, 27 March and 24 April but aims to build momentum and become a regular series, with potential to expand to a larger site.

Businesses will be able to get help on a range of topics including grant funding, social media, innovation, business planning, pricing your product, and much more.

Businesses can register now for the first session or apply to be a volunteer expert-in-residence.

Find out more and register for the Co-Work Hub.

If you would like to volunteer to be an expert-in-residence, please contact anna.sadler@shropshire.gov.uk at the Shropshire Growth Hub

Notes for Editors:

The Shropshire Growth Hub is the business support arm of Invest in Shropshire at Shropshire Council.

The Growth Hub runs an extensive yearly calendar of free events and webinars and offers advice on grants, loans, and assistance for companies of any size or sector, from start-ups to established enterprises.

The main contracts funding the work of the Shropshire Growth hub are:

• Marches Growth Hub (MGH) core funding through the Department for Business and Trade.
• UK Shared Prosperity Fund

Between 2022 and November 2025 the Hub has delivered nearly 19,000 interventions, supported over 1,200 start-ups, and helped many enterprises with funding, technology adoption, and workforce development. Last year, it assisted 1,420 businesses, facilitated 195 new ventures, and hosted 123 events for more than 2,500 delegates, driving Shropshire’s growth and future resilience.

Business Survival rates in Shropshire

Historically Shropshire has a low business death rate of 8.0% (2024 )compared to national (9.8%) and regional (10.6% West Midlands) averages. Source: Office of National Statistics (ONS)