In today’s fast-paced economic environment, small businesses and entrepreneurs face numerous challenges. To address these, YTKO launched the BRISBES Programme—an initiative designed to support small businesses in Bristol. BRISBES (Bristol Business Enterprise Support) offers comprehensive assistance to local entrepreneurs, guiding them through business development complexities and helping them achieve sustainable growth.
The Vision Behind BRISBES
The BRISBES Programme targets individuals in Bristol who are either starting or have recently launched a business. With funding from the West of England Combined Authority and Bristol City Council, BRISBES secured £925,000 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. In terms of eligibility, only Bristol based businesses qualify for this programme.
This financial backing enables the programme to provide a holistic approach to business support, covering essential aspects such as business planning, marketing strategy, and financial management. By equipping participants with the necessary skills, BRISBES ensures they are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Core Components of the BRISBES Programme
The BRISBES Programme is structured around key components, each addressing a specific area of business development:
- Business Planning and Strategy Development: Entrepreneurs receive expert guidance in creating robust business plans, setting clear goals, identifying target markets, and establishing a growth roadmap.
- Financial Management and Access to Funding: BRISBES supports financial management, including budgeting, cash flow management, and securing funding through loans, grants, and investments.
- Marketing and Brand Development: BRISBES offers tailored support to help businesses develop their brand, create compelling campaigns, and leverage digital tools.
- Mentoring and Networking Opportunities: BRISBES connects entrepreneurs with experienced mentors and facilitates networking events and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.
Grants are also available with this project, with a grant pot of £200k for Community Connector pathways and a grant pot of £240k for SME contributions, to support business growth and local employment opportunities.
Grants in the first application window included:
- Workshops for young entrepreneurs looking to start a business,
- Funded Business hubs with access to free co-working spaces and childcare facilities for working mothers.
- Supporting a local food business in creating an additional income stream by providing funds to purchase the equipment required to launch a frozen food range.
The second application window launches in October 2024 for SME grants and November 2024 for Community Connectors.
Participants in the BRISBES also benefit from personalised mentoring with business advisers, who provide guidance throughout their entrepreneurial journey. This support continues post-launch with mentoring, advanced workshops, and resources for long-term growth.
Success Stories: Real-World Impact
The impact of the BRISBES Programme is evident in the success stories of the entrepreneurs it has supported. For instance, Jorge Freure, founder of La Lola Catering, joined BRISBES to overcome challenges in business planning, financial management, and marketing. Through the programme, he refined his business model, improved cash flow management, and secured funding for expansion. Similarly, Sarah Thompson, founder of an eco-friendly beauty product line, benefited from BRISBES by receiving guidance in business strategy and marketing, leading to increased sales and a growing customer base.
Looking Ahead
The BRISBES Programme is more than just a business support initiative—it is a catalyst for growth and innovation in the West of England. By providing comprehensive, tailored support, BRISBES is helping to create a vibrant and resilient business community. As the programme evolves, it will play a key role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the region, empowering more individuals to turn their business dreams into reality.
