Young Northumbrian chocolate entrepreneur starts out

A young Northumbrian entrepreneur has launched her luxury chocolate range following help from the ERDF funded Business Northumberland initiative.

Stefanja Smith’s The Chocolate Smiths has set up in her home near Morpeth and has already generated great demand for her handmade produce.

Stefanja said: “The Chocolate Smiths was merely just an idea a couple of months ago, but thanks to the advice and knowledge of the Business Northumberland team, it is now real. I’m doing it and having such a fantastic time.

“Knowledge and listening to other people’s experiences is so valuable and important. They could not have been more helpful.“

Stefanja currently sells her products at Tynemouth Market every Sunday from 9am - 4pm and in a few popular independent Delis, restaurants and local businesses.

Northumberland Business advisor, Phil Sly, said: “After meeting Stefanja, Amy and Chris, I have no doubt that this business would be a success, they both have a clear passion for the art of chocolate making.

“This combined with their creativity and a fantastic brand, is surely a recipe for success.”

Stefanja has already taken on her first employee. A fellow chocolatier and also graphic designer, Amy Francis, has designed much of the branding and product design to market the produce.

Business Northumberland offers pre start and start-up businesses in the county free support in reaching their business potential. It is a free service that provides business advice and support to anyone thinking about starting a business in Northumberland and also offers business coaching to existing businesses. Business Northumberland is joint funded by Arch,

The Northumberland Development Company, Northumberland County Council and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

In addition to running workshops, Business Northumberland is also able to provide business support and advice through its knowledgeable business support team. Further information on the support available can be found at www.businessnorthumberland.co.uk