Support service, The Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS), has initiated a strategic partnership with Ponteland's SME Centre of Excellence.

SME Centre of Excellence is reputed for having previously bolstered more than 12,000 businesses in Northumberland.

As part of the NSBS, they will continue dispensing expert advice to pre and fledgling businesses to foster sustainable trading through their first year.

Programme Manager, Lucy Evermore said: “It’s great to be able to offer start ups and those inspired to start a business invaluable support. Northumberland is hub of creativity and drive and to be able to support these businesses will be so beneficial not only to the individual but to the economy as well.

"I am really looking forward to working with Ammar and the team over the next few years to provide that invaluable support helping start ups to navigate their business journey”.

The programme will offer a range of support for businesses looking to grow, farm enterprises looking to diversify, and individuals looking to start a business.

It employs its experienced team to provide one-on-one guidance to individuals and businesses in areas of initiation, expansion, diversification and business sustainability.

Ammar Mirza, Executive Chair of SME Centre of Excellence, said: “As an entrepreneurial centre of excellence, we are delighted to be working with the Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS) to deliver support and inspiration to entrepreneurs in Northumberland.

"It's a great opportunity to use our proven enterprise ignition framework to collaborate with NSBS and support start-ups to start, survive and thrive. The level and depth of support from the programme is significant adding value to the whole county and beyond."

Participants can benefit from large scale events like seminars and networking opportunities integral for establishing meaningful business connections.

Those whose business is just a thought, or has been established for less than 12 months, can benefit from the support.

The project is expected to conclude in March 2025.

To find out more information about the new Northumberland Small Business Service, please visit www.northumberlandsmallbusiness.co.uk or contact the team at business@advancenorthumberland.co.uk