A new phase of rural business support has been announced for Northumberland, as partners and businesses gathered at The Alnwick Playhouse for the Northumberland Rural Business Showcase to celebrate the impact of recent enterprise programmes and look ahead to the county’s economic future.
The event celebrated the success and impact of the Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS) and Rural Asset Multiplier Pilot (RAMP) programmes, which since 2023 have supported businesses across the county to grow, modernise and strengthen their resilience. The celebration brought together rural enterprises, delivery partners, elected members and stakeholders to reflect on the programmes’ achievements and recognise the contribution of Northumberland’s business community. In the last 3 years NSBS and RAMP have provided over £6m in grants to rural Northumberland businesses, not including the £195,000 awarded to 107 pre start and new businesses and created over 140 jobs for the county.
The Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS) is delivered by Northumberland County Council. The project is part funded by the North East Combined Authority and the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Rural England Prosperity Fund, with the North East Combined Authority as the lead authority.
A key highlight of the day was the announcement that further rural funding has been secured to continue the Northumberland Small Business Service, ensuring that tailored business support will remain available to rural enterprises across the county. This continued investment builds on the strong foundations established through NSBS and RAMP and reinforces the long-term commitment to Northumberland’s rural economy.
The continued service will provide tailored advice, practical guidance and access to specialist expertise for Northumberland businesses looking to start, grow, diversify or future-proof their operations. Further details regarding the next phase of delivery will be released in the coming months, with businesses encouraged to register their interest now to receive updates on eligibility and programme developments.
Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet Member for Regeneration at Northumberland County Council, said “Northumberland’s rural businesses are the backbone of our communities and local economy.
“The success of NSBS and RAMP demonstrates what can be achieved through targeted support and strong partnership working. This new programme will ensure that rural enterprises continue to have access to the advice and expertise they need to thrive.”
Attendees also heard about the impact of business support since 2023, including job creation and safeguarding, increased productivity, diversification into new markets and strengthened local supply chains. Business case studies showcased the breadth of sectors supported from tourism and forestry to start ups.
The event concluded with the launch of the new Northumberland Economic Strategy, setting out a 10-year vision for sustainable growth, innovation and opportunity across the county.
Leader of Northumberland County Council, Councillor Glen Sanderson said “I am so proud of all the work the teams have done and are doing which ensures that expert business support is available and being taken up right across the County”.
Businesses interested in ongoing support through the Northumberland Small Business Service are encouraged to register their interest to receive updates and early information about the next phase of delivery.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
The projects are part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
For more information about the Northumberland Small Business Service, please visit Northumberland Small Business Service or contact the team at [email protected] or visit www.northumberlandsmallbusiness.co.uk
