Ashfield District Council has launched a new test trading programme at its markets to provide people with an opportunity to develop and try out their business ideas trading to the public.

Our Test Trading places will provide four days free trading as a guest at Sutton outdoor and indoor market, Kirkby outdoor market, or Hucknall outdoor market.

The programme is part of Ashfield’s allocation for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and aims to encourage interest in market trading, increasing occupancy at local markets, and potentially leading to traders taking on a shop.

In addition to the four days free trading, the council will cover the costs of indemnity insurance and provide access to a grant of up to £500 that traders can use to build knowledge about their business, market or industry, and to prepare what they need to maximise their trading opportunities.

Coun Lee Waters said: “This new programme is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who is thinking of starting their own business or wants to branch out from selling products online.

“It removes any financial barriers and gives people a chance to experience what it’s really like to trade at one of our bustling markets.”

To apply for the programme, contact the council’s markets team by emailing [email protected] or request a meeting with the business support team by emailing [email protected]