Enterprising Sunderland boosts entrepreneurs

A new programme is helping aspiring entrepreneurs in Sunderland turn their ambitions into thriving businesses.

Enterprising Sunderland, launched earlier this year and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has supported 297 people considering self-employment, with 68 successfully starting their own businesses.

The programme, offering workshops, one-to-one advice and online training, is delivered on behalf of Sunderland City Council by a consortium of partners experienced in championing communities across the city. This includes the North East BIC, Back on the Map, Sunderland BME Network, The King’s Trust, University of Sunderland, Sunderland Bangladesh International Centre and Smarta.

Paul McEldon, chief executive at the North East BIC, said: “For anyone looking to explore new opportunities by working for themselves, there has never been a better time to turn a skill, hobby or interest into a business opportunity.

“Encouraging more businesses to start-up in Sunderland is one of the ways that we can support local economic development at a time when the city has so much to offer residents, businesses and students. 

“Enterprising Sunderland is making this journey easy and accessible for people, no matter their background or current circumstances.

“We’re thrilled to have helped so many people, but we have really high hopes that we can help even more before the programme closes in March 2025.”

Designed to inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds, the initiative provides tailored support, helping participants develop skills and confidence. Entrepreneurs such as Chris Larkin from Washington, a heating engineer who started his own business, C Larkin Plumbing & Heating, after being made redundant, exemplify the programme's impact.

He said: “The help I’ve had has been spot on. I’ve attended self-employment workshops, had help with my marketing and funding applications and received really valuable business mentorship.

“The BIC has been by my side whenever I’ve needed extra help or advice, there’s never any pressure and they really can help you see more clearly how self-employment could work for you.

“As the business grows, I really want to give back to the community by offering apprenticeships and helping others take their first steps as a heating and plumbing engineer.

“I used to watch my grandad work as a youngster. Receiving help through this programme and having someone to look up to has really guided me on this path, and I’d like to do that for someone else if I can.”

By empowering people with the tools to succeed, Enterprising Sunderland is helping to foster a culture of entrepreneurship across the city.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for housing, business and regeneration at Sunderland City Council, added: “Sunderland is a city full of enterprising people.  Support like this is vital in helping them take the step into self-employment and start-up.

“It’s brilliant to see the positive impact this package of support has had to date and I would encourage anyone out there who is thinking of starting up their own business to take advantage of the support on offer before the programme ends.”

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