Small and medium businesses are encouraged to sign up for the next round of two successful support programmes.
Published: Friday, 8th August 2025
Small and medium businesses are encouraged to sign up for the next round of two successful support programmes.
Cherwell Business Spark and Cherwell Business Accelerator offer bespoke and one-to-one support to help entrepreneurs start or grow their business. The programmes are delivered by Enterprise Oxfordshire on behalf of Cherwell District Council and funded from the council’s share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
In their first phase the programmes delivered over 1,300 hours of support to 165 businesses. They helped safeguard or create 35 jobs, and dozens of organisations adopted new technologies, processes, or accessed new markets as a result.
The Spark programme helps Cherwell’s residents to start their own successful business while Accelerator works alongside established businesses, backing their growth plans and the potential creation of further jobs. Both initiatives start their next delivery cycle in early September
Councillor Lesley McLean, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Finance, Property and Regeneration, said: “The Spark and Accelerator programmes have had a real impact on north Oxfordshire’s vibrant economy, reaching organisations working in everything from physiotherapy to food security; app developers to training and advocacy groups.
“With inspiring, tailored support, the programmes help small and medium businesses realise their ambitions and I’m delighted to see participants reporting that the training has helped position them for sustainable growth and long-term success.
“I am really pleased that the council has once again funded this key work using its allocation of UKSPF funding and I encourage anyone who has an idea to start or grow their business to seize this opportunity to get expert support from the Spark and Accelerator programmes.”
The Cherwell Business Spark helps people start their own successful business or create a profitable additional income stream. Support includes marketing, sales, financial planning and the development of a first-year action plan.
The Cherwell Business Accelerator backs small businesses looking to grow and create further jobs. Support includes a bespoke business review, development of a three-year business growth action plan, and a leadership development offer for senior managers.
Both programmes are delivered by a team of experts and inspiring speakers. They feature in-person and online sessions as well as valuable networking opportunities.
To find out more and register their interest, people can visit enterpriseoxfordshirebusiness.com