Sharing the Success is a programme which helps to regenerate disadvantaged areas by encouraging people from these communities throughout Leeds to set up in business to increase economic activity. Particular focus has been placed on areas such as Harehills, Chapeltown, Beeston, Seacroft, Gipton, Holbeck, Armley, Bramley etc.

What the Programme Offers

The Programme supports anyone thinking of starting up in business or anyone that has an existing business within Leeds. There are around 24 project partners delivering specific business support to people across Leeds. Below is a range of what is available to:

• Business advisors that will support you and develop your idea
• Enterprise workshops to build your confidence, knowledge and skills required for business
• Enterprise Rehearsal allows you to test trade your idea for up to six months whilst retaining your benefits
• Business events that provide you with information about services available in your community
• Funding – loans of up to 30,000
• Grants up to £5,000 for  Social Enterprises
• Premises at the 3 business centres across Leeds that can be used for work space, which include Shine in Harehills, Hillside in Beeston and West Leeds Enterprise Centre in Bramley
• Training courses on marketing, budgeting, book keeping etc
• Mentoring support for people already in an established business to help your business develop and grow further.

 What Role does ABDN Play?

ABDN has employed a Project Manager, who organises a series of business events in the community aimed at encouraging people from the black, asian and minority groups, women and young people to set up in business by providing them with the necessary information on the support services on offer.  

We raise awareness of the business activities taking place in your area, case studies, information on business support services via the quarterly  Connect newsletter and E-news.

We offer a mentoring program to support new start ups in developing their business idea further, this will involve one to one contact with a business professional who can support them in terms of best practice, how to expand their business or client base, marketing suggestions etc dependant on the individual needs. 

If you would like further information on business support and events in your area, please contact:

Hamieda Begum,Project Manager

E: hamieda@abdn.org.uk

t: 0113 322 9203 m: 07894546844