European Funding Sparks New Businesses in Cornwall

Fifteen new businesses in Cornwall have been launched thanks to support European Regional Development Funding that has provided expert business guidance to entrepreneurs in Cornwall.  The new business ventures were celebrated at a recent business showcase event held at Truro and Penwith College’s Penzance campus.

The new businesses range from a mother and daughter producing jewellery inspired by shapes in the sea and designed using the very latest in computer aided design techniques, to a 3D design and animation company that is changing the way we experience architectural projects including pre-construction new home sales.

Spark offers people with new businesses ideas access to expert guidance to help make the businesses a successful reality.  Project participants will be guided through a series of steps which includes workshops, events and one to one support.  There is even a £500 grant and a package of business support and training in excess of £4,000 and a business mentor for each business that completes the course.

Buddy entrepreneurs and sisters Sarah and Emma Rippon have launched, Sisken Skin Care Oils.  They have produced a specialist product that uses oil based products that provide active skin care in a way that water based products can’t.  With a product range in place the sisters are busy working on the marketing and sales strategy that they will hope will one day soon see their products in the major high-street shops as well as luxury hotels in Cornwall and beyond.

Businesses and guests at the evening’s showcase were treated to a presentation by successful entrepreneur Terry Mullins, founder of business support service, The Reluctant Salesman.  Terry offered the group some excellent words of encouragement as well as guidance on how to build relationships with their potential customers as they take their products to market.

If you have a business idea and want support to make it a reality you can access the Spark project.  Go to www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/spark or call 01872 308237 and see what European Regional Development Funding could do for you.

Notes to editor

Spark

Spark provides the insight and tools to move your idea or business forward. The programme offers a unique opportunity to launch your business in a supportive environment.  The project is delivered by Truro and Penwith College and is funded by European Regional Development Funding.  It is being delivered as part of the Outset Cornwall Project.

European Regional Development Fund

The project has received ££3,360,000.00 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.  The Department for Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for ERDF. Established by the European Union ERDF funds help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations.  For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding