North Somerset Council Urges Renewed Investment in Business Support
Programme concludes after three years, highlighting significant economic impact and calling for continued government and regional funding.
By Tamsin Rowe
••4 min read
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Generic image of a business support programme brochure and a laptop displaying an economic growth graph.
North Somerset Council is calling for renewed government and regional investment in business support following the successful conclusion of the three-year 'Business Support Unlocked' programme.
The Business Support Unlocked programme, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by the hive in Weston-super-Mare on behalf of North Somerset Council, concluded in March 2026. It ran from April 2023, supporting residents and businesses across North Somerset.
An impact report highlights the programme's significant contribution to the local economy, demonstrating the value of targeted business support for local businesses, jobs, and high streets. However, the council states that without continued external funding, its capacity to support start-up and early-stage businesses is now significantly restricted.
The programme assisted businesses facing challenges such as digital transformation, financial pressures, rural isolation, and barriers to self-employment. Dedicated support was also offered to women entrepreneurs, retailers, creative businesses, and food and drink enterprises.
The impact report warns that a lack of continued investment could lead to reduced business creation, weaker high streets, increased business failure rates, and fewer opportunities for local residents.
Jen Layton, founder of JENergy Limited, a personal training business launched in May 2025, received support to optimise her website, save money, and establish her business. She stated, "The hive's support was completely invaluable. From practical business advice to marketing guidance, it gave me the tools and confidence to grow my business."
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"I'd be concerned if other start-ups and small businesses were unable to access that kind of support in the future, because it can make all the difference in turning a good idea into a successful business."
Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council's Cabinet Member for Sustainable Places, emphasised the vital need for ongoing government investment due to rising costs and economic uncertainty. He noted, "The success of the Business Support Unlocked programme demonstrates not only the value of government investment, but also the importance of having experienced local partners delivering support on the ground."
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"The evidence is crystal clear. The businesses created, jobs generated and economic impact achieved through Business Support Unlocked would not have been possible without dedicated external investment and the expertise of a trusted local delivery partner."
Angela Hicks, Chief Executive at the hive, highlighted the support provided to hundreds of individuals over three years. She added, "The results clearly show that targeted business support works. The businesses created, jobs generated and economic impact achieved through Business Support Unlocked would not have been possible without dedicated external investment through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the expertise of a trusted local delivery partner."
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"Start-up and early-stage businesses often face significant barriers to accessing support and finance, making locally delivered advice and guidance particularly important. Continued investment in programmes like this is essential if we want to support thriving high streets, encourage entrepreneurship, create jobs and help local economies flourish."
Although the programme has concluded, North Somerset Council has provided approximately £20,000 of interim funding to the hive to continue a reduced service until March 2027. This current funding allows only a basic level of service.
The hive is also delivering a £10k Weston Retail Accelerator Programme, funded by the Let's Celebrate Towns initiative, to help local retailers strengthen their businesses and support the vitality of Weston-super-Mare town centre.
The council and the hive are awaiting details on future business support opportunities from the West of England Combined Authority and other funding streams.
Key impacts of the Business Unlocked Programme include: 208 new businesses created, 226 jobs generated, 927 first appointments delivered, 2,113 one-to-one support appointments delivered, 70 workshops delivered, and 209 participants supported through Starting in Business courses.
