Support and Advice for New and Existing Business

Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency

CREA is designed to be a "one stop shop" offering guidance for both new and established businesses of all sizes. Services offered include start-up advice, business guidance, grants and training. CREA administer the business expansion grant and marketing support grant offered by Eden District Council.

Business Link

Business Link.gov.uk is the official government website for businesses of all sizes. Business Link offer advice on tackling key business issues including; planning, starting and expanding your business; managing people; training and development for staff; business improvement and tax issues.

Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Chamber of Commerce describe themselves as being the voice of Cumbrian business representing both small to medium enterprises and larger corporate organisations. Membership of the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce opens up a wealth of free essential business information and advice, networking opportunities, International Trade support, Member2Member offers and discounts on a whole range of services.

Jobcentre Plus

Jobcentre Plus is a government agency that supports individuals of working age who are looking for a job or training opportunities available. There is also a service for employers that are trying to fill any current vacancies they may have. For organisations that work with Jobcentre Plus there is information on current Tendering Exercises and Jobcentre Plus services.

Employer Direct is a JobCentre Plus service that lets you post a job vancancies online.

Enterprise Answers

Enterprise Answers the new trading name for Cumbria Asset Regeneration Trust (CART). Their role is to understand what your business needs are, and then offer assistance along with experience that can help you to achieve these needs. They offer more than just finance. They can help you to achieve your aspirations through a range of support and advisory services.

University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria Business Services provide support and guidance from helping businesses to set up, through to their successful sustainability and growth. Services available are:

• New Entrepreneur Scholarships
• Into Enterprise
• Graduate Recruitment and Retention
• Business Placements Programme
• Short Courses for Businesses
• Business Interaction Centres
• Business Innovation Project
• ICT Solutions

UK Trade and Investment

UKTI provides advice and support to UK-based companies wishing to grow their business overseas. It provides a combination of free, grant aided and subsidised services designed primarily for small and medium sized businesses.

For Further Information:

• Contact: Economic Development
• Address: Eden District Council, Town Hall, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 7QF
• Telephone: 01768 212169
• Email: econ.dev@eden.gov.uk
• Fax: 01768 890470