The Outset Start and Grow Programme is now closed for new applicants.

If you are based in Portsmouth and looking to start a new business, we suggest that you contact Portsmouth City Council’s business team on the business helpline 023 9284 1641 or by email.

If you have started your business or have an established company in the Solent region and are looking for additional support, we recommend you contact Get Set for Growth Solent, which provides a wealth of business support.

Outset Start and Grow Portsmouth

At Outset Start and Grow, we know how inspiring the idea of working for yourself can be, but also that managing your own business can sometimes be daunting – that’s why we’re here!

So what’s holding you back?

We’ve helped over 20,000 people just like you to make their dreams come true, by giving them the confidence, knowledge and skills to create thriving, successful businesses. Download the brochure

Want to start a new business?

Our team of friendly and supportive expert business advisors will help you explore your business idea. A range of informal information sessions, practical workshops and online learning will give you the tools and confidence you need to start your business journey.

We won’t baffle you with jargon, but share our wealth of knowledge and expertise in a friendly and supportive way. We will help you develop your business plans to provide you with the best chance to qualify for a start-up grant.

Got a business idea but not sure where to start?

We can help you find out more about what enterprise is and whether it’s the right option for you. Our advisors can also talk you through the range of support available through Outset Start & Grow to help you decide on your next steps.

This support is available through the Community Renewal Fund but only available until the end of June so get in touch now!

Looking to grow your existing business?

If you are a business that has been trading for under three years, employing less than 10 staff and based in Portsmouth, we can offer a range of support to help you access grant funding, build your business planning skills and help your business grow sustainably.

Outset Start and Grow offers a blend of one-to-one and group learning, an extensive online library of useful resources and tailored training that will best suit your business needs

We understand that to work better as a small business you need support tailored to you.

How the programme is funded

Outset Start and Grow is a new, intensive programme of structured business support and grants, funded by the Community Renewal Fund (CRF) and Portsmouth City Council.

The programme is focussed on regenerating communities and enabling more people to benefit from economic growth through investment in skills, enterprise and employment.

Portsmouth City Council received funding from the CRF for this new business support and grant programme, which will be delivered across its region by Outset Start and Grow. It will equip new and existing enterprises with the business skills they need for sustainable growth and creating new jobs.

New grants to help you grow

We can help help you to get the money you need to hire people, install new technology, buy new kit, expand your premises and build a more profitable business. We can even help you with the application paperwork to make the whole process much easier.