News

December 21, 2010

Disabled entrepreneurs offered free enterprise coaching

Would–be entrepreneurs in the North East can access free enterprise training to help get their business off the ground following the launch of a new scheme, writes Clare Bullock.

The Northern Pinetree Trust has received investment from the European Regional Development Fund to help potential entrepreneurs with a long-term illness, disability or from a disadvantaged community, establish a business.

The scheme will provide a number of coaching activities including one-to-one pre-start advice and guidance for those furthest away from starting a business.

“This project targets those with the intention of setting up their own business, but who face a variety of barriers that would normally prevent them from doing so,” said Northern Pinetree Trust chief executive, Michael Leithrow. “It will ensure the correct level of coaching is offered to allow people to make an informed choice as to whether self-employment is right them.”

The scheme will create 15 enterprise coaching jobs. It is aimed at those who have a physical, mental, sensory, learning or hidden disability, or those who come from disadvantaged communities.

The initiative should help 1,000 people with disabilities or disadvantages establish a business in the North East.

• For more information on the scheme, visit the Northern Pinetree Trust website
• London’s disabled entrepreneurs get free advice on finance