County Council offer veterans start up opportunity

Former members of the armed forces looking to start their own business are getting a helping hand thanks to a new initiative.

STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL OFFER VETERANS START UP OPPORTUNITY.

Staffordshire County Council have launched a new initiative through their Enterprise Centres offering a discounted rent for six months to any veteran who wants to take on a business unit, helping kickstart their entrepreneurial journey.

The initiative comes after Staffordshire council leaders came together in February 2023, to reaffirm their commitment to the county’s armed forces community and to encourage other organisations to pledge their support.

An information event at Shire Hall Business Centre in Stafford on Wednesday 21 June, during the run-up to Armed Forces Day, will give veterans the chance to meet the team and find out more about the facilities on offer.

Philip White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council said:

“Starting a business can be a daunting task for anyone, let alone the men and women who are transitioning from life in the armed forces, which is why we are offering this extra support.

“Offering this discount means that our veterans who are starting a business, can have the confidence to move into a light industrial, workshop or office unit at a reduced cost to help get them going.  Staff in the centres can also provide support and advice on running their own business and find business support opportunities to help make working for themselves easier.

“Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and we have a good record when it comes to business start-ups.  Last year we were above the national and regional averages for business survival.  I do hope people from the armed forces community can benefit from this support.”

Staffordshire has eight enterprise centres across the county, offering a wide variety of services and both business and office space.