Free business start-up programme launched in Eastbourne

A business start-up programme that helps local people make their new enterprise a success has come to Eastbourne.

The Local Enterprise & Apprenticeship Platform (LEAP) programme is under The Business Support in Eastbourne project that has received £77,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

With the next programme starting on May 22 and May 23, entrepreneurs in Eastbourne have just a few days left to register. By doing this, they will access a free programme of tailored support packed with workshops, one-to-one mentoring and networking to help them create a robust business plan and a local support network. There is also the opportunity to win £2,500 towards start-up costs. 

Corinna Kitchen, a current LEAP client, said: “I had no idea that this sort of support was available for new business entrepreneurs - I am so glad I saw the advert! 

“I am finding it such an important experience. It’s giving me so much more confidence in what I am doing and real hope that I may be able to make it happen. 

“I am grateful to have the guidance from knowledgeable and passionate mentors and I feel really supported in what I am doing. 

“It’s also really good to meet other people on the workshops who understand what I am going through and are facing the same challenges as they get their businesses underway.” 

LEAP is a free programme for anyone in Eastbourne who has a business idea or who has been trading for less than six months. 

Visit www.edealgroup.org to find out more and register. If you have any further questions about LEAP, contact Edeal on 01323 641144. Edeal is the local not-for-profit agency that delivers the programme. 

Published on May 16, 2023.