Bedford Borough Council is inviting established businesses across the borough to unlock new opportunities through the fully funded UKSPF: Bedford Borough Innovation & Growth Business Support programme, which is now open for registrations. Delivered by the University of Bedfordshire and supported by £40,000 from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, this initiative offers tailored guidance to help businesses succeed in today’s fast-changing economic climate.
Businesses can access personalised one-to-one expert advice, along with practical workshops on finance, business planning, marketing, and digital skills. Support is designed to be as accessible as possible, with sessions running both online and at local venues, scheduled flexibly to suit busy business owners.
Following a comprehensive review of local business needs in 2025, Bedford Borough Council recognised the importance of targeted support for both rural and urban enterprises. The UKSPF: Bedford Borough Innovation & Growth Business Support programme was developed to address these needs, helping businesses strengthen their operations and plan for the future.
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning and Prosperity, said, "Bedford Borough is home to a diverse and dynamic business community, and we are committed to empowering our local entrepreneurs. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your finances, upgrade your digital capabilities, or plan for resilient growth, this programme is here to help. I encourage every established business to take part and be part of our borough’s ambitious future."
Professor Andrew Church, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Research & Innovation at the University of Bedfordshire, said, “The University of Bedfordshire is pleased to be working alongside Bedford Borough Council on this important initiative. Our role is to help local businesses tap into the knowledge and skills within the University, whether that’s through fully funded workshops, personalised one-to-one business advice or specialist consultancy sessions with subject-matter experts.
“We’ve supported many businesses across the region over the years, and this programme offers a new way for us to connect with even more. By listening to what businesses need and responding in practical ways, we hope to make a real difference to their growth and success.”
All established businesses in Bedford Borough, from villages to town centres, are encouraged to get involved and take advantage of this specialist support - at no cost to themselves.
Register an interest and find further details at www.beds.ac.uk/ukspf-bedford
For more information about the UK Shared Prosperity Fund’s impact in Bedford Borough, visit www.bedford.gov.uk/UKSPF
The UKSPF: Bedford Borough Innovation & Growth Business Support programme is commissioned by Bedford Borough Council and delivered in partnership with the University of Bedfordshire. This project has received £40,000 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Photographed are Anne Papé, UKSPF Project Co-ordinator at Bedford Borough Council, and Professor Andrew Church, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Research & Innovation at the University of Bedfordshire.