Support and advice
Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy. We have more small businesses than ever, and critically, more businesses are surviving the difficult first two years – more than most other places in the UK.
This success is in part due to the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub. Led by Staffordshire County Council on behalf of the Local Enterprise Partnership, over 4,000 businesses have been signposted more than 10,000 times to advice and support, with many receiving in-depth, one-to-one guidance.
If you can't find what you're looking for on these pages, try our Business Directory which links you with other business support providers and networking opportunities.
Starting up and general business advice
Call the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 – your single point of contact for expert business advice and signposting.
If you're unemployed and aged 18–30, or over 50 and looking to progress your business ideas, the King's Trust may be able to help.
Accommodation
We offer a range of land and accommodation, including office units and workshops on flexible terms – ideal for start-up businesses.
Think2 – Free childcare
We offer up to 15 hours per week of free childcare for two-year-olds from Staffordshire families on Working Tax Credit with a household income under £16,190.
Relocation and expansion
If you're new to the area or looking to expand, call 0300 111 8005 for help with property, land, skills and recruitment.
Business loans
We work in partnership to offer loans from £10,000 to £50,000 to businesses unable to access bank finance. Visit BCRS or call 0345 313 8410 to check eligibility.
British Business Start-up Loans
Borrow up to £25,000 to start or grow your business. Fixed interest rate of 6% per year. Repay over 1–5 years. Includes 12 months of free mentoring. Government backed.
British Business start up loans website.
Selling products and services abroad
We work with UKTI and partners to support businesses exploring overseas trade. Open to Export may also offer additional help with your exporting plans.
Environmental management
Improve your environmental management by visiting the Staffordshire Business and Environment Network (SBEN) or call 01785 277379.
Promoting your business
Enjoy Staffordshire works with tourism businesses and public sector organisations to grow the tourism economy and make Staffordshire a better place to live, work and visit.
Learning and skills for businesses
Staffordshire Community Learning offers a wide range of courses including marketing, accounting, languages, computing, presentation skills, maths, English and more.
Health and safety support
Find information and contact details for further advice on health and safety.
