Support schemes for your business
- Business start-up support aspiring entrepreneurs can now access expert training and funding support their business ideas
- West Kent Business provides free access to business mentoring, micro grants, networking opportunities, webinars, workshops and more. The scheme is run by us with Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Councils
- Small Business Support from West Kent Mind to help businesses create inclusive workplaces and customer spaces
- Seedl, free online training for businesses and employees
- The Kent and Medway Growth Hub provides a range of information to help with starting, growing and expanding your business.
- Ofgem provide advice on energy efficiency schemes and grants
Support from the Council
Whether you have been based in the District for years or have just moved here, we are committed to supporting your company succeed and grow.
Our 'Team Around Your Business' will provide you with a single point of contact to coordinate your needs and can help with any of the following:
- Economic development and tourism
- Building Control
- Business Rates
- Environmental Health
- Licensing
- Planning
If you would like to know more, please contact us.
Business grants
- Gatwick Foundation Fund for charities, social enterprises, community groups and voluntary organisations
- The Farming in Protected Landscapes programme for farmers and land managers to support and improve Protected Landscapes (formally called Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or AONBs).
Partnership support agencies
- Sevenoaks District Chamber of Commerce runs a programme of events for members and non-members, including business networking, training opportunities and speaker breakfasts.
- Federation of Small Business provides guidance and advice to help small businesses and the self-employed.
- Department for Business and Trade helps businesses operating in export and global markets.
- DWP can provide advice and support for recruiting staff.
- Trade Association Forum provides trade associations with the same support they provide their own members.
- Enterprise Nation helps connects you to the resources and expertise to help small businesses succeed.
- Gatwick Diamond has an excellent business support network and access to key decision makers in local authorities and financial institutions.