Backing local talent: Start-up fund launched to support new businesses

Every great business starts somewhere – from Dyson’s first prototype in a garden shed, Gymshark’s first embroidered t-shirt or Amazon’s first book sold from Jeff Bezos’s garage.

Now, North Lincolnshire Council is helping local people turn their ideas into reality, with free advice, one-to-one support and grants of up to £500 available for new start-ups.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are committed to creating an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive – this cash not only helps new businesses get off the ground but also ensures long-term resilience in our communities.”

The start-up grants can be used to support residents setting up their own business or becoming self-employed within their first 12 months of trading – with the available to help cover essential costs such as:

• Marketing and advertising
• Equipment such as desktop computers
• Training, permits or accreditations.

The Barrel Shop in Barton-upon-Humber – a zero-waste store selling a wide range of groceries, cleaning products and cosmetics – recently received a grant.

They invested in a commercial electronic weighing scale and a computerised stock control system – helping the business streamline its operations by improving stock accuracy and enabling more efficient day-to-day management.

Cllr Waltham added: “This funding is about giving local people the tools they need to succeed and supporting the kind of ambition that keeps our towns and villages strong – by backing local talent, we’re investing in the future of North Lincolnshire and delivering real opportunities that matter to our residents.

“The Barrel Shop is a fantastic example of innovation that is creating jobs and supporting the town to thrive.”

The team at the Barrel Shop also worked with the council’s one-to-one support to produce a clear business plan and cashflow forecast, and completed the online start-up workshop to build their knowledge and confidence as a new business owner.

Aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners are invited to attend a series of informal drop-in sessions taking place across North Lincolnshire over the coming months.

These events offer the opportunity to speak one-to-one with a business advisor and discover the range of support and funding available, including how to access the start-up grants.

All sessions run from 9am to 11.30am on the following dates:

Waters’ Edge, Barton – Wednesday 3 December 2025

Ashby Hub – Wednesday 7 January 2026

Normanby Gateway, Scunthorpe – Wednesday 14 January 2026

The Angel, Brigg – Wednesday 28 January 2026

Crowle Hub – Wednesday 11 February 2026

No appointment is necessary – simply drop in at a convenient time. However, if preferred, appointments can be pre-booked via an online form.

If you’re unable to attend in person, you can also schedule a 45-minute online appointment with a start-up advisor at your convenience.

The programme directly supports Priority Three of the North Lincolnshire Economic Growth Plan 2023–2028: to increase business start-ups and sustain high survival rates. It also aligns with the UKSPF’s wider mission to promote inclusive, local economic growth.

For more information about the grant and how to apply, go to the Invest in North Lincolnshire website or email businessinfo@northlincs.gov.uk.

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