Rural startup support
Specialist enterprise support for people starting a business in rural areas of NE England.
New rural startup programmes are launching on 1 April 2026
Are you considering starting a business? Or have you started one in the last 6 months? We can help.
Here at the Rural Design Centre, our speciality is supporting rural enterprise. We understand the additional challenges rural business can face, such as access to markets, digital connectivity, finding skilled labour and networking. We’re on hand to help make it easier, with our specialist rural business advisors.
Individual support
We offer a range of services, both in-person and online, to help you achieve your aims and make your new business succeed.
One-to-one support
Free, tailored and delivered within your community. Our rural start-up advisors work in towns, villages and hamlets throughout Northumberland. If online appointments are more accessible, we offer those too.
Grant finding
Rural grants and StartUp loans may be available in your area. If you have a viable business plan, we will support you in finding and applying for these.
E-learning
Access flexible, on-line business training, available 24/7. It’s packed with insights you can apply to your businesses straight away.
Request a 30-minute callback
Our Rural Business Advisors will be in touch. Calls will be scheduled from week commencing Monday 20th April onwards. It all starts with a conversation.
The programme is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and brings together business support providers from across the region to provide expert advice, guidance and exciting opportunities to help turn your business idea or early-stage venture into a reality. For more information visit the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Prospectus.
