New initiatives to boost north Essex startups
Grants will help freelancers and startups to develop their ideas through ARU
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is to launch a range of new initiatives to support startups and freelancers in north Essex, thanks to support from the North Essex Economic Board.
The Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy (AREA) will allocate “microgrants” of £250 to selected startups recognised as having significant potential, helping them reach growth targets with mentoring and support.
A longer-term vision is for AREA to develop a Business Support Hub – a database of freelance services provided by ARU students and graduates – offering affordable business solutions such as accounting, web development, graphic design and social media marketing, to North Essex SMEs while also helping freelancers to launch and grow their careers.
Additionally, funding of £5,000 will support a "Coworking Wednesdays" programme, hosted at the Arise Innovation Hub at ARU’s Chelmsford campus.
The programme will consist of a series of interactive workshops covering issues such as intellectual property, harnessing AI and pitching tips, as well as coworking events to promote networking and provide access to relatable role models and startup expertise.
The Coworking Wednesdays initiative is open to ARU students, recent graduates and businesses located at Arise, with some spaces made available for local startups.
“This funding reflects our commitment to driving regional business engagement while enhancing entrepreneurial outcomes for ARU students and graduates.
“These small but important initiatives will deliver measurable, sustainable impact across north Essex and beyond.”
Professor Gary Packham, Pro Vice Chancellor for Student Enterprise at Anglia Ruskin UniversityFor more information about the Coworking Wednesdays initiative, visit https://forms.office.com/e/5z36RRweKe