e-factor

e-factor does not provide grants but does offer micro-loans of up to £1,500. In the first instance we will work with you to explore traditional finance routes and grants and if you are not able to raise the necessary finance via these routes you can apply for one of our micro-loans.

Depending on the type of business or sector, there may also be external funding or grants available and we can help you access this finance.

We can offer as much or as little support as you and your business require. Some people like to have ongoing contact with their Business Advisor, others prefer to contact them as and when there is a specific need.

Our Business Advisors will work with you in the way most appropriate for your needs.

The purpose of e-factor is to encourage enterprise in the region, so even if you only have a fledgling idea but would like to find out what is involved in running your own business, we can offer advice and support and help you decide if it is the right path for you.

The initial starting point is our free Getting Started course which helps you look at enterprise as an option

We offer a variety of workshops aimed at all stages of business whether you are just thinking about enterprise, have a start up idea or are already running a business.

For a full list of workshops currently available, look at our courses page or you can view our training and events calendar for what is on in the next few weeks.

In addition to these workshops we can also provide bespoke training specific to the needs of you and your business which you can discuss with your Business Advisor. To contact a Business Advisor for an initial consultation call 0800 952 0181 or complete our contact form.

Wherever possible you will see the same Business Advisor ensuring both a continuity of support and the building of a close working relationship.

Some of our Advisors have specialist knowledge, such as Tax for example, so you may also be referred to them, but will always have the reassurance of the same Business Advisor looking after your interests.

Having a business plan is crucial for any business, especially a new business or where finance is needed. We do not expect you to have a business plan, in fact we will work with you to put together a business plan for your business or start up.

If your business idea would best fit being a social enterprise, we can provide specialist advice on how to set up and run a social enterprise business.

Contact 0800 952 0181 and ask to speak to an Advisor who specialises in social enterprises.