Fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, LEAP offers comprehensive support to aspiring entrepreneurs. As part of the programme, one participant who submits the best business plan will be awarded a £500 grant!
The Programme Kicks Off with a One-Day Workshop on the 24th June
This engaging one-day workshop marks the beginning of the LEAP Business Start-Up Programme. Throughout the day, we’ll explore key areas to help turn your idea into a viable business, covering:
- Do you have the motivation, vision, and values to run a business?
- Business reality check – is there a demand for your product or service?
- The importance of business planning – and how to do it effectively
- How much do you really know about your business idea?
- Choosing the right legal structure
- Staying compliant with laws and regulations
- Introduction to profit & loss and cash flow forecasting
- Business networking – groups worth joining
- Your approach to marketing and sales
Ongoing Support
After the workshop, up to 15 participants will be selected to move to the next stage of the programme. Each participant will be paired with a dedicated business mentor to help develop a robust business plan.
Participants will also attend three focused 3-hour workshops on:
- Finance
- Legal essentials
- Social media marketing
These sessions will be available both in-person (daytime) and online (evenings) for flexibility.
Final Pitch and Prize
Once the business plans are complete, they’ll be submitted for review. Five finalists will be invited to pitch their ideas at a mini "Dragons’ Den" style event. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony and will receive a £500 cash prize.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to residents within the Eastbourne Borough local authority area who are looking to start a new business. We also welcome applications from Eastbourne-based businesses that have been trading for less than 12 months.
Please note, due to limited places - we will only accept one booking per business.
Reserve your place now on the one-day workshop – Once your booking is received, you will be sent the official LEAP client registration form to complete.
