The University of Bedfordshire has partnered with Bedford Borough Council to launch a new business support programme under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), aimed at driving innovation, growth, and resilience among local businesses.

This initiative is designed to provide Bedford Borough-based businesses with practical, hands-on support to address key operational and strategic challenges. Whether businesses are looking to expand into new markets, develop innovative products or services, reduce operational costs, attract and retain skilled talent, or navigate sustainability and environmental goals, the programme offers tailored guidance and resources to support their ambitions.

With access to experienced advisors and specialist support, businesses can take confident steps toward growth—while remaining focused on their day-to-day operations.

Who is the support for?

• Established businesses of any size - registered in the Bedford Borough region

What does the programme offer?

Eligible businesses able to receive fully funded support, benefiting from:

• Personalised 1-to-1 business advice and specialised consultancy sessions to help identify challenges and drive strategic growth.
• Workshops (online and in-person) focused on building innovation capacity—covering topics such as:
  • Digital transformation
  • Financial resilience and bid writing
  • Marketing
  • ..and much more