Sources of Help and Advice for Project Applicants
LEADER funding aims to increase economic activity including business and jobs growth.
Applications to the LEADER Programme will be assessed and scored against a range of selection criteria and only the highest-scoring will be successful. Further details are available in the New Forest LEADER Applicant Handbook.
All applicants are advised to have a written Business Plan, including financial forecasts, and ensure it is up to date before they start the LEADER application process. This will help them to complete the forms and make a strong case for funding.
The New Forest LEADER Programme Office can assist with general enquiries as to the eligibility of applicants or projects; however we are unable to offer business advice or assistance with Business Planning.
Instead, shown below are a number of external sources of help and support for business development and planning.
Please note: Links contained on the New Forest LEADER website lead to other websites which are not under our control; we are not responsible for the content of any linked site.
Links provided by New Forest LEADER are provided to you only as a convenience and the inclusion of any link does not imply reliability and endorsement by us; we accept no liability in respect of the content.
Free Business Advice from Enterprise First Small and micro businesses can now benefit from free business advice thanks to an agreement between New Forest District Council and Enterprise First.
The new advice service is aimed at any small business in need of guidance or information, whether considering a start-up or looking to expand into new markets. Trained and experienced business advisors can help with topics including business planning, marketing and access to finance.
New Forest District Council, in Partnership with Enterprise First, have produced a local guide to setting up a successful business (although its also a useful resource for those managing existing businesses). Start Your Own Business in the New Forest is available here.
Other sources of advice:
| WSX Enterprises offer one to one Business Planning support for small businesses as well as resources. |
| The Enterprise Network (TEN) nurtures new and growing small and micro businesses in Swindon and Wiltshire, supporting them from the first ‘light bulb’ moment. TEN offers flexible office space, hot desks and virtual office addresses, as well as rooms for meetings, training and networking. Along with incubation space for new business, TEN provides signposting to business support services and access to business networks. Call on 01264 848311 or email info@theenterprisenetwork.co.uk |
| The New Forest Business Partnership acts as a forum for local business people to express their views, learn new skills, network with potential clients and suppliers, and help make changes that will benefit their business. |
| Community First New Forest offer Business Planning support for not for profit groups as well as resources and funding advice. |
| Action Hampshire provides grant information for groups managing village halls and other community facilities |
