The Enterprise Development Programme (EDP) supports Redcar & Cleveland’s pre‑start and early‑stage business community to develop, test and grow their ideas. The programme is delivered in three stages: Bitesize Enterprise Sessions, a supported test‑trading opportunity at the Festival of Thrift, and an Accelerator stage designed to help participants turn learning into action and progress their business growth.
Stage 1: Development Stage – Bitesize Enterprise Sessions
We will deliver three Bitesize Enterprise Sessions covering key topics essential for starting and growing a business. These short, impactful sessions are designed to give you the confidence, knowledge and practical tools you need to take the next step in your business journey. Each session focuses on real‑world challenges and offers simple guidance you can put into practice straight away.
The Bitesize sessions will be delivered in partnership with EMS and Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, with support from Anglo American.
Click the links to explore each Bitesize Enterprise Session, find out what’s covered and register to take part.
| Session | Date | Time | Location | Link* |
| Trade Ready: The Essentials | Thursday 21st May | 9:30am – 10:30am | Redcar Civic Centre | Click Here to Register |
| Marketing That Works: Tips to Reach Your Customers | Friday 29th May | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | Redcar Civic Centre | Click Here to Register |
| Energy Saving and Sustainable Business: Changes That Make a Difference | Thursday 4th June | 10am – 11am | Temperance Square, Loftus | Click Here to Register |
Stage 2: Incubator Stage – Supported Test‑Trading
The Incubator Stage offers pre‑start and early‑stage businesses the opportunity to test‑trade at the Festival of Thrift, one of the region’s most vibrant and well‑attended events. This stage provides a supportive, real‑world environment where participants can build confidence, gain experience and engage with new audiences.
A small number of businesses will be chosen to take part. Successful applicants will receive guidance, preparation support and access to a small amount of funding to help remove barriers to trading.
This stage is delivered in partnership with the Festival of Thrift and supported by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and Anglo American.
If you’re interested in taking part in this opportunity, please email business@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk to register your interest.
Stage 3: Accelerator Stage – Turning Learning into Action
The Accelerator Stage helps participants build on their Festival of Thrift experience and take the next step in developing or growing their enterprise. This stage focuses on turning learning into action, offering tailored support and access to grant funding to help participants progress at a pace that suits their business.
Participants who complete the Incubator Stage will be invited to apply for grant funding to support the next phase of their business. Funding can be used for a range of growth‑focused activities, such as purchasing equipment, developing marketing channels or accessing professional services.
The Accelerator Stage is designed to feel supportive, practical and empowering, encouraging creativity, confidence and sustainable business development.
This stage is delivered in partnership by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and Anglo American.
Please note, registration for each session expires 48 hours prior to the session. If you wish to attend but registration has closed, please contact us on the details provided.
If you’re having any trouble registering for the sessions, or you’d like to discuss anything in more detail, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via the details below:
Email: business@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
Telephone: 01642 444 366
