Businesses in Ashfield have the chance to benefit from a £3.8m support programme that has been designed to boost the local economy by almost £19m over the next 10 years.

The Enterprising Ashfield project — funded by the Government’s Towns Fund — will provide businesses in the Sutton and Kirkby areas with direct access to university expertise and facilities thanks to the Nottingham Trent University (NTU) initiative. It also provides support for residents and employees to enhance their skills.

The project builds on the ongoing commitment of NTU to Ashfield and Mansfield.

Delivered over the next four years, Enterprising Ashfield consists of:

A Headstart programme — offering intensive coaching and mentoring to potential and existing entrepreneurs; equipping them with the skills and knowledge to establish, sustain, and grow a successful business.

Breakthrough, Accelerator and UpScaler programmes — offering support to businesses at different stages of growth; enabling them to increase their productivity, access new markets, develop new products, and/or implement a plan for growth

Access to graduate talent on short-term placements in local businesses to support projects and growth plans

Collaboration opportunities with the university to undertake specific research and development activities using NTU’s world-leading facilities and academic expertise

Access to flexibly-delivered short courses, designed to meet local skills gaps and boost employment prospects.
Over the course of the project, Ashfield’s economy could benefit from the establishment of 225 new businesses and it is hoped almost 300 businesses will grow and increase productivity as a result of the support given.

A total of 900 Ashfield residents will have the opportunity to enhance their skills through training and courses provided by NTU and 150 graduates will join businesses.

Michael Carr, pro vice-chancellor, enterprise and knowledge exchange, said: “NTU has a proven experience of driving enterprise and innovation in businesses successfully. Over the last three years we have already supported more than 2,700 companies, helped nearly 300 entrepreneurs to start and develop a business, and assisted 4,000 people to enhance their skills and job prospects.

“Together with our expanding presence in Ashfield, which includes a potential £1m investment by NTU to support the planned Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre, Enterprising Ashfield will contribute to future economic prosperity of the area by bringing our values and our expertise and experience to its businesses and residents.”

Coun Matthew Relf, Ashfield District Council cabinet member for regeneration and planning, said: “It is fantastic to see the Enterprising Ashfield programme being launched.

“We have been working closely with NTU to deliver a programme that will have a positive impact for businesses and residents of Ashfield, not just in the short-term but for years to come.

“The Towns Fund investment is enabling programmes like Enterprising Ashfield to provide opportunities for business owners and entrepreneurs to access world-class facilities, learning and support.

“Not only will this have a hugely positive impact on the local economy, but it will ensure there are high value jobs and training within the district for the next generation.

“This is a really exciting programme and we’ll be working with NTU to ensure that Ashfield businesses, entrepreneurs and residents take advantage of the fantastic opportunities available.”

Businesses interested in accessing support should contact [email protected] .