Bassetlaw District Council is proud to mark the 25th anniversary of its Enterprise Grant Scheme, celebrating a quarter of a century of helping local businesses to start, grow, and thrive across the district.
Over the past 25 years, around 600 start-ups and small businesses in Bassetlaw have received enterprise grants, as well as thousands more benefitting from mentoring, training, and workspace opportunities provided by the Council’s Economic Development Team.
From local trades and independent shops to cutting-edge tech firms and social enterprises, the Council has played a key role in nurturing Bassetlaw’s diverse and dynamic business community.
One business that has made the most of this opportunity is Choose to Lose in Worksop. Choose to Lose is a weight loss company founded by Mel Pym in 2021, they received an Enterprise Grant to help with updating their website, launch some local marketing, and purchase a new laptop.
Mel said: “Receiving the Enterprise Grant from Bassetlaw District Council made a real difference for our business. It allowed us to invest in key areas, expand our services, and reach more people in the community. We’re incredibly grateful for the support, which has helped us grow and continue making a positive impact in Worksop.”
The Council continues to champion local enterprises through events and networking opportunities held throughout the year at venues such as the Retford Enterprise Centre, The Bridge Skills Hub, and Middletons Yard in Worksop.
Cllr Charles Adams, Cabinet Member for Business and Skills, said: “This anniversary is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of Bassetlaw and the ongoing support provided by the Council over the past 25 years. We’ve seen first-hand how targeted help whether through funding, advice, or affordable workspace can turn ideas into thriving businesses.
“As Cabinet Member for Business and Skills, I’m proud of the role we’ve played in empowering local people to take those crucial first steps and grow their ambitions. We’re not just celebrating the past; we’re investing in the future of business in Bassetlaw.”
Another business that benefitted from the Enterprise Grant was Nicole Olivia Cake Designs in Retford. Nicole started her business in 2020 and used the enterprise grant to purchase equipment that helped to expand her business. This included a second oven to fulfil additional orders, racking for cooling the products, another mixer and a large fridge.
Nicole said: “We are extremely grateful to Bassetlaw District Council for helping us with equipment along our journey. Without it we would have struggled to grow our bakery, expand our team, and supply other business and events with our products.”
The Council’s Business Enterprise Grant scheme offers funding for pre-start and start-up businesses who have been trading for less than 36 months and are based in the district.
To find out more about the support and advice Bassetlaw District Council offers to businesses and to see our successful applicants our business support webpage.
