People who want to launch a new business or social enterprise in Salford are being offered grants of up to £1,000 by City West Housing Trust.
The Don’t Keep it Under Your Hat scheme has seen over 60 new traders take on the self-employment training programme.
Read: Swinton baker’s lifelong dream rises with business launch
The housing association linked up with the Greater Manchester Centre for Voluntary Organisation (GMCVO) to spin out the grant funding programme.
Former charity worker Linda Ryan, 64, is one who has already reaped the benefits of the project – having successfully made the move from unemployed pensioner to business owner when she set up her own enterprise which helps charities to increase their funding donations.
Linda said: “The training I received when setting up ‘Jovis’ was fantastic – City West’s enterprise team were always full of ideas to help get my business off the ground.
“Receiving a grant has put me in a far better position to deliver real value for my clients, whilst also contributing to the local economy.”
Established in 2013, the scheme helps people to turn their dreams of running a business or social enterprise into a reality – offering training to develop business and finance plans, in addition to advising on how to promote new ventures through social media and marketing.
Ian Taylor, Business Development Manager at GMCVO, said: “We are thrilled to be a partner in this initiative. Stimulating enterprise in communities is an important way for people to shape their own future; and has the potential to be replicated in other areas.”
Lisa Scully, Director of Business Transformation at ForViva, said: “Levels of unemployment are rising, and so it is vital that residents have the opportunity to also explore self-employment options.
“Our partnership with the GMCVO will allow us to give more people the tools and skills they need to launch their own ventures, whilst offering residents the chance to contribute to the local economy and community.
“We are looking forward to working with the GMCVO so we can continue to help local people make their great ideas a reality.”
If you have got a great idea you want to make a reality, or want to find out more about the Don’t Keep It Under Your Hat programme, please contact City West’s enterprise team on 0300 123 522, or email enterprise@citywest.org.uk.
