Business and Enterprise
Our relationship with businesses in the area involves offering support, training and guidance to enhance productivity and improve the skills of local residents and employees across Mansfield and Ashfield.
Programmes and support delivered by NTU include skills courses, new business coaching, graduate and talent support and research and development collaboration through the Enterprising Ashfield programme; targeted at employers and employees in Sutton-in-Ashfield and Kirkby-in-Ashfield.
Business growth support via Nottingham Business School’s Help to Grow programme, and engagement with the Dryden Enterprise Centre (DEC) – a space for entrepreneurs, founders, SMEs and start-ups to start, grow and scale their business - are available more broadly, including for businesses in the Ashfield and Mansfield area.
Case studies
Taking our business to the next level
Laura Bacon wanted to take her florist business online in January 2023, setting up a new website and online shop that would allow Laura to grow the company. There was just one problem: she didn’t know how.
The Enterprising Ashfield project proved to be the answer, allowing Laura to complete the Website Design for Small Businesses course, taught by NTU in partnership with Ashfield District Council and part funded by the Government's Town Fund.
Giving local business a Headstart
Entrepreneurs across Mansfield and Ashfield can get expert guidance on how to establish and grow a successful business through a new collaboration with NTU.
The ‘HeadStart’ programme runs until March 2026 and offers intensive coaching and mentoring to potential and existing entrepreneurs – covering key elements such as developing a business idea, establishing a target audience, marketing, and maintaining profitability.
Helping business leaders to grow
NTU’s Nottingham Business School (NBS) has a rich variety of programmes available to businesses and professionals in the Mansfield and Ashfield area. The Help To Grow management course is part of the School’s offering: a development opportunity aimed at senior leaders and owners of small and medium sized businesses. Previous leaders on the programme have come from a range of backgrounds and sectors, each seeking to develop and grow their organisation.