Enterprising Sunderland

Transforming the lives of people in Sunderland

Enterprising Sunderland is an innovative programme of support designed to ensure anyone who lives in the city can explore opportunities to work for themselves.

Bringing together the experience and expertise of partners that work closely with communities, the support provided is tailored to meet the needs of individuals whatever their personal goals.

This project is funded by the North East Combined Authority through its Integrated Settlement.

Recent Start Up Stories

First Step Creative Dance

Strictly passionate: Andrea’s first step into business When Washington woman Andrea Lynn Henderson launched...

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26/11/2025

Rain or Shine Counselling

Sunderland counsellor transforms her own life with new business Sunderland counsellor Kirsty Laing has...

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27/05/2025

H30 Beach Saunas

Pop up sauna business launches in Sunderland A new holistic health and wellbeing business...

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24/02/2025

Free support that suits you

In person meetups, video calls, networking and collaboration opportunities.

Resources & templates, including business plans and cashflow forecasts.

Workshops on topics like business planning, finance, and securing your first customers.

Out of hours – evening workshops and one-to-one appointments.

Ongoing support for up to 12 months after you have started trading.

Our team will also signpost you to relevant support agencies.

Working in Partnership

Our consortium brings together like-minded organisations passionate about helping people in Sunderland work for themselves. Embedded in local communities, they each bring specialist experience ensuring Enterprising Sunderland can help as many people as possible.

North East BIC

Encouraging and supporting entrepreneurship.

King’s Trust

Supporting young people to start a business.

Smarta

eLearning programmes, in your own time.

Sunderland BME Network

Promoting the BME voluntary and community sector.

University of Sunderland

An innovative, accessible and inspirational university.

SBIC

Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.

Sunderland City Council

A better future for Sunderland and its citizens.

Media Savvy

Education, skills, creativity, and media projects.

Pallion Action Group

Resources, activities and development in Pallion.

Market Collective

Reviving Local High Streets, Empowering Small Businesses.

Speak to one of our advisers

Want to begin your journey into self-employment? Contact our advisers today to talk through your options.

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