Enterprising Ashfield programme has provided 650 Ashfield residents with free business support

The Enterprising Ashfield project, delivered by NTU on behalf of Ashfield District Council (ADC) as part of its Towns Fund Programme began in March 2022, and is now entering its final year.

During that time, it has also supported over 140 entrepreneurs on their journey to starting a new business, helped almost 100 established businesses to scale up and grow, linked 17 businesses to the University’s academic teams to develop innovation, research and development projects (with another 17 in development), and encouraged the uptake of 46 graduate placements and 138 higher apprenticeships within Ashfield businesses.

By the close of the programme in March 2026, it is anticipated that over 250 businesses will have been supported, 225 people will have learnt the skills needed to start their own business, 50 graduates will have been placed in local businesses, and 900 people will have been supported to undertake training courses.

The programme consists of a variety of short courses, from AI for business, social media and content creation, website design and presentation skills, of which over 140 have taken place. In addition, the team has also delivered bespoke training courses for local businesses, as well as providing business growth support which has led to businesses securing investment and grants to help with their development. Finally, the team has also supported local business with graduate placements and apprenticeships.

Kelvin Eatherington, Enterprising Ashfield Project and Economic Programme Manager said: “There has been a fantastic response from such a diverse group of people to this programme; from those wanting to start a business to fully-fledged businesses, from a variety of sectors from HR and retail to insurance and beauty, and learners from 17 to 80 years old.

“We’re really proud of the accomplishments that some of the participants have already gone on to achieve; businesses that have been set up, new products developed and new careers commenced.

“We’re looking forward to the final year of this project with more to achieve, and more businesses to help, and have seen first-hand the impact on the Ashfield community as a result.”

Cllr Matthew Relf, Ashfield District Council’s Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said: “Supporting Ashfield residents to get back into work and improve their skills is a top priority for us as a Council. Hundreds of people and business across the District have now benefited from the programme so far, covering everything from getting into work and start-up businesses to supporting the more established firms to grow.

“We are delighted to be part of the Enterprising Ashfield programme and have heard so many positive reports from those who have taken part. I would encourage all those who think they could benefit from learning new skills, help and advice for a new or existing business or looking for a graduate or apprenticeship programme to get in touch now.”

Ryan Howard first found out about the Enterprising Ashfield when he saw a leaflet at the Job Centre. Ryan contacted the Enterprising Ashfield project and received help from the project in setting up his own business - Johnny 5 Replica which builds replicas of Johnny 5 from the 1986 sci-fi film Short Circuit. As well as start-up support Ryan has undertaken training in social media and 3D printing courses. Ryan has since been to 50 conventions, been on the BBC, and to Texas, USA to talk about his design.

To check if you are eligible for Enterprising Ashfield support, or for more information on the Programme, you can visit here.