BIC Start Up

Working for yourself doesn’t mean going it alone

Anyone can start a business. Whether you have experience or not, we can help you transform your skills, passion and bright ideas into a thriving opportunity.

With free tailored support at every step, our advisers support people from across North East England to unlock the freedom that comes from self-employment.

Want to begin your journey? Call our team today.

The help you need,
when you need it.

Life is busy. That’s why our flexible support is designed to work for you. From a no-pressure conversation with one of our advisers, to workshops and online learning, the path you take is up to you. 

Free support that suits you

In person meetups, video calls, networking and collaboration opportunities.
Resources & templates, including business plans and cashflow forecasts.
Workshops on topics like business planning, finance, and securing your first customers.
Out of hours – evening workshops and one-to-one appointments.
Ongoing support for up to 12 months after you have started trading.
Our team will also signpost you to relevant support agencies.

Feeling Inspired?

Everyone’s journey is different. We’ve helped thousands of people over the past 30 years, and they all have a tale to tell. From transforming redundancy into career renewal, and countless hobbies and passions into pounds, their inspiring stories show anything is possible.

Recent Start Up Stories

Annual Cleaning Solutions

The first step to starting a business is always the hardest. Making that commitment...

October 8, 2024

Ready to take the leap

Get in touch or sign-up to attend one of our relaxed and informal start-up events.

Help across the North East

Our fully-funded support is available to people across the region, from Sunderland to Northumberland and Durham to Newcastle – there’s a programme that can help.

Enterprising Sunderland

If you’re based on Wearside our expert team can help make your start-up dreams a reality.  

Enterprising Durham

Support, workshops, and grants for entrepreneurs in Durham and surrounding areas.

Enterprising North

Supporting entrepreneurs in Northumberland, Newcastle, Gateshead, and North Tyneside.

Not in one of these areas?

Don’t worry if you don’t live in one of these areas, we might still be able to help, give us a call.

Our team is your team

Speak to one of our advisers

Want to begin your journey into self-employment? Contact our advisers today to talk through your options.

Working in partnership

We bring together like-minded organisations passionate about helping people work for themselves. Embedded in local communities, they bring specialist experience ensuring we can help as many people as possible.

Raising Finance

Speak to our advisers to find out more about raising finance to start your business.

Tide Bank Partnership

Open a sole trader or limited company bank account and we’ll put £50 in to the account to get you started.