North Northamptonshire Council is relaunching its support programme for small businesses, offering crucial resources to help them navigate the challenges of today’s economy. The initiative, which is backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Smarter Society, is designed to support businesses across North Northamptonshire’s High Streets, including those in retail, hospitality, and services.
This summer’s programme features expert-led mentoring, digital and social media training, and networking events, all tailored to meet the specific needs of local businesses. The one-on-one support extends to 50 businesses, while workshops will cover vital topics like customer service and AI integration. In addition, small businesses will have access to a wealth of online resources aimed at strengthening their operations.
A standout element of the programme is Smarter Society’s “Beat the Streets” initiative, where team members visit all 12 towns in the region to meet business owners face-to-face, providing direct support and tailored guidance based on their unique challenges.
This year, the programme builds on the success of last year, which helped 75 businesses gain new skills and build resilience. It reflects the council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening local economies and ensuring that High Streets remain the heart of the community. The first event, focusing on business therapy, is set for July 22 at 10am.