Torbay businesses of all sizes and sectors are invited to a free information session where they can learn about and sign up to a range of fully funded business support programmes.

Organised by TDA, the session will take place on 4th October from 09:30 to 11:00am at Torbay Business Centre, Lymington Road, Torquay.

Businesses will hear from industry experts and discover the comprehensive, tailored support packages available which include a carbon reduction scheme, innovation consultancy, social enterprise support and start-up support.

All the programmes are fully funded by Torbay’s allocation of funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and are completely free for the businesses taking part.

Councillor Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Services and Economic Growth for Torbay Council, said: ‘‘Whether you're thinking of starting a business or seeking to take your established business to the next level, there’s a business support programme for you. I encourage businesses from across Torbay to get involved and find out how they could benefit.’’

The free session will provide the opportunity to network, ask questions and hear more about the programmes on offer which include:

Start-Up Torbay - Delivered by experienced TDA Business Advisor Kim Thornton, the programme aims to give people the confidence, skills, and practical advice they need to start a business.

Growing Torbay’s Social Economy - Delivered by Community Interest Company, Local Spark, this programme will develop the Torbay Social Enterprise Network, offering support and mentoring for new and existing social enterprises so that they can flourish and continue to make a positive impact.

IMPACT Torbay - Delivered by innovation consultancy Studio Zao, the programme is aimed at helping businesses and entrepreneurs create new commercial opportunities through innovation. Participating businesses will also be supported to access research and development grants of up to £10,000 that can help their businesses to thrive.

Make it Net Zero Torbay - Delivered by SWMAS, the programme is designed to help Torbay businesses with reducing their carbon emissions and saving money on their energy bills. Participating businesses will receive a bespoke package of support to assess their current carbon impact, identify actions to reduce their impact and hopefully save money. There is also the potential of being awarded grant funding to support decarbonisation plans and introduce energy saving measures.

Book your free space at the information session via the Eventbrite page or email Torbayukspf@tda.uk.net

Torbay has received £1,764,043 from UKSPF to invest in local projects with the aims of building pride in place, increasing life chances, supporting local business, and people and skills. TDA is managing Torbay’s UKSPF Investment Plan on behalf of Torbay Council, overseeing procurement, allocating funding, and managing the contracts of those organisations delivering the projects. For more information about Torbay’s Shared Prosperity Fund programme visit investintorbay.com/ukspf