Free Start Up Webinars and Retail Workshops Launched to Support Local Entrepreneurs and High Street Retailers
People across North Devon and Torridge who are thinking about starting a business are being encouraged to take advantage of a range of free online start up webinars and workshops delivered by North Devon+ (ND+). Funded by North Devon Council and Torridge District Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the initiative aims to support local economic growth by helping people develop strong business ideas and equipping high street retailers with tools to adapt and thrive.
The Start Up webinar is delivered online and is designed for people at the very beginning of their business journey. It provides essential guidance, practical advice, and the confidence to take the first steps into self-employment. Topics include developing and shaping a business idea, understanding customers and markets, practical marketing basics and more.
The webinar takes place on Wednesday 18 March, from 10:00am to 12:00pm. More information and booking is available here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/all-you-need-to-know-about-starting-a-business-tickets-1982358438453?aff=oddtdtcreator
Alongside the Start Up Webinar, ND+ is also offering free hands-on workshops for existing bricks and mortar retailers across Devon. Across two sessions, participants will explore how to enhance their customer offer and in-store experience, use low cost and effective marketing, manage costs and margins more efficiently, and build a sustainable, resilient retail model. The workshops are practical and interactive, giving retailers the opportunity to learn from experienced advisers, share ideas with other local businesses, and leave with clear, actionable steps to put into practice immediately.
The retail workshops are free for businesses that operate from a physical retail outlet, are based on a high street, and are located within a town centre. Online-only retailers are not eligible.
Workshop dates:
- 19 March, 6pm-7pm - Boosting footfall and local visibility for independent retailers
- 23 March, 6pm-7pm - Increasing customer spend and creating repeat visitors
Louise Adam, Programme Delivery Manager at ND+, said:
"Whether someone is just starting to explore a business idea or running a high‑street shop, access to practical, relevant support can make a real difference. These webinars are about giving people clear information, confidence and ideas they can use straight away."
Anyone interested in the Start Up webinar programme or retail workshops is encouraged to book via the links provided, or contact ND+ by phoning 01237 428834, emailing [email protected] or visiting www.northdevonplus.co.uk.
Mar 26
