Business Growth
Supporting businesses in Somerset to grow and be successful now and into the future.
Heart of the South West Growth Hub

Cornerstone Mentoring If you are a business based in Somerset you can access the mentoring service, run by experienced business volunteers, for free.
Micro Providers If you are interested in offering a service that can help or care for other local people, there is free support available through the Somerset Community Micro-enterprise Programme. + Find out more
Staff Development and New Skills

Apprenticeship and traineeships
If you would like to increase your workforce and encourage new talent into your organisation, offering an apprenticeship or a traineeship can be the perfect solution. Find out more
Skills Support for the Workforce A programme developed to upskill employees within small and medium-sized businesses by providing recognised accredited qualifications and bespoke training. + Learn more
Building a talent pipeline
Kickstart Scheme
The Kickstart Scheme is a new Government initiative to create new 6-month job placements for 16-24 year olds who are currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. The job placements will support the participants to develop the skills and experience they need to find work after completing the scheme. + Find our more
Somerset Education Business Partnership
Can help you to build strong partnerships with local schools, colleges and training providers – supporting you to develop a talent pipeline for your business. + Visit the website
Advice on how to start your own business
Find out about the support available