About support & funding
UK Shared Prosperity Fund (closed March 2026)
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) Cheshire West and Chester Council Business Support Programme has now closed.
The UKSPF was launched by the UK Government on 13 April 2022 and closed March 2026.
Other Support
Working with other key organisations operating across the Cheshire West area, we offer free, independent advice and guidance on starting up a business, providing support to existing businesses and those looking to relocate to the area.
As we know from our work with local business people there is more to running and developing a business than just having a good product or service. You need a flexible business plan, good marketing, effective financial controls and a clear vision of how you want to develop your business.
- Start up club: delivered with West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce this fully funded programme is open to anyone in their first two years of trading or thinking about starting a business. It offers opportunities to connect with others at a similar stage and learn about topics such as access to finance, PR and marketing, social media, web design, branding, and accountancy. There is no cost to attend, and you do not need to be a Chamber member.
- Business Tapas: online resource for business growth and development.
- Loyal Free app: supporting our local high streets the app promotes deals, events, information and trails.
- Go4Growth: online programme to help local and small to medium enterprises (including micro businesses and the voluntary sector) in any sector to enter and grow in the public sector marketplace.
- Fully funded Hot-desking and Meeting Space: Junctions, Meridian House, Winsford offers fully funded hot-desking, meeting and workshop space.
West Cheshire Businesses
Business Support Programmes and Testimonials
Learn about previous business support programmes delivered by the Council and hear testimonials from the businesses we've helped.
Made Smarter
Made Smarter was created following an industry-led review of how UK manufacturing industries can prosper through digital tools and innovation.
Visit the Made Smarter website to find out more about how your business could benefit from support and grants.
Innovate UK
Innovate UK is the UK’s national innovation agency. They support business-led innovation in all sectors, technologies and UK regions.
They help businesses grow through the development and commercialisation of new products, processes, and services, supported by an outstanding innovation ecosystem that is agile, inclusive, and easy to navigate.
Visit the Innovate UK website for the latest funding opportunities.
The North West continues to stand out as one of the UK’s most resilient and quietly powerful centres of advanced manufacturing innovation
Plans to transform a former Ellesmere Port florist into a micro pub and coffee shop have taken a step forward with new business submitting a licence application
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