Free support to develop your Shropshire based agri-business.
Sustaining Shropshire provides FREE Start-up and Business Growth programmes to Shropshire’s agri-tech, agri-food and drink, and supply chain sectors, to develop pioneering ideas and boost sustainability.*
Embark on your start-up journey:
Apply to be supported by our FREE 8-week Start-up programme, designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the vital skills and knowledge to turn ideas into successful ventures.*
This programme covers:
- Creating a robust business plan
- Market analysis & positioning
- Knowing your worth
- Building a brand
- Financials
Sessions are delivered in-person in small groups by industry experts and include interactive activities and one-to-one support. Participants are expected to attend all sessions in person.
(Midlands Agri-EPI Centre, Poultry Drive, Edgmond, TF10 8JZ)
We are now accepting applications for the next cohort starting June 2024.
Excel your agri-business:
Apply to receive 14 hours of FREE tailored 1-to-1 support to streamline, refine and grow your business.*
Achieve your growth aspirations with the guidance of a specialist business consultant who is familiar with the agri-food industry and farming landscape.
Access support in areas such as:
- Elevating your business’ profile
- Accessing new markets
- Funding and investment readiness
- Business MOT- Identifying areas for improvement
*Eligibility criteria applies
Apply today and be a part of shaping Shropshire's agri-ech and agri-food sectors.
Why choose us?
- Located in the heart of a vibrant and expanding agri-innovation cluster.
- Be supported by experts in the agri-tech and agricultural sectors.
- FREE access to the Innovation Barn – a dedicated incubation space – and networking opportunities.**
- Gain access to experienced Innovation Specialists for R&D support at Harper Adams University.
**For 6 months upon enrolment of the programme
The Innovation Barn
The Innovation Barn is a dedicated space for pre-trading and start-up Agri-Tech & Agri-Food businesses.
Located at the Midlands Agri-Tech Innovation Hub, the Innovation Barn allows entrepreneurs to be a part of the wider UK Agri-Tech Centre thriving innovation ecosystem of members and tenants.
With state-of-the-art facilities, this workspace aims to inspire and allow individuals at the start of their start-up journey to turn business ideas into a reality.*
The Innovation Barn provides a structured environment for inspiration and collaboration, where users can access:
- Hot-desk and break out areas
- Ad-hoc meeting pds
- Internet Access
- Meeting rooms for formal discussions and ideation sessions
- Networking opportunities
*Eligibility criteria to use the Innovation Barn applies
Sustaining Shropshire is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit the UK government’s website here.
