Business Development and Skills Training

An example of business support and development is the new service provided for those working in the creative industries sector by the Creative Business BOOST project. The project received a £150,000 investment to provide specialist industry specific, technical and financial advice from specialist practitioners within the Creative Industries, coupled with access to resources such as equipment, skills and finance. The project has benefited creative individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses throughout rural Somerset from its offices in Taunton.

On Exmoor, a major Rural Renaissance capital investment of £100,000 has been made to Phase 1 of a multi-phase, multi-year, development that contributes to the regeneration of the Cutcombe/Wheddon Cross Area. This first phase will assess the feasibility of a mixed-use development within the Cutcombe livestock market and adjacent land site, so as to assist in sustaining the market, develop new workspace and an Exmoor Park Interpretation Centre, and consider the potential for housing.

Another exciting project providing advice and skills training to the business sector is the Connecting Rural Somerset project, part of the existing Somerset Broadband Programme, which has helped businesses make the most of broadband and ICT. Through a sister-project known as Somerset Broadplaces it has also worked with communities to provide ICT hubs in village shops and community halls.

View a complete list of projects providing business support.

Exciting projects for business development and support include creative industries initiatives, capital investments, and advisory and skills training, plus many other exciting projects.