We will support high growth business sectors such as marine engineering, defence, photonics and digital, as well as our traditional strengths of tourism, agritech and food production. Through creating a strong and sustainable local economy, we can increase productivity and pay across Devon and Torbay.
Support available for local businesses
There’s lots of support available for local businesses. Below you will find links to some support offers in the region.
- Growth Hub
The Heart of SW Growth Hub offers free business advice and support services for established and start-up businesses in Devon and Torbay
- Devon Chamber of Commerce
Devon Chamber of Commerce – supporting business
The Devon Chamber is the largest network of businesses in the South West. They provide business support, events and training.
- Federation of Small Businesses
Local News | Small business news for Devon
The FSB offers many benefits including exclusive discounts, 24/7 helplines, debt recovery, employment protection and much more.
- Skills Bootcamps
Skills Bootcamps – free, flexible courses – Devon
Skills Bootcamps can be co-funded by employers to support development of employees. The courses are free, flexible and last from 2 to 16 weeks.
- Upskilling
Employers – South Devon College
South Devon College offer online courses, free management courses, apprenticeships and other ways to upskill existing staff.
Employ an Apprentice – Exeter College
Exeter College can provide support and advice if you’re considering taking on an apprentice across a range of sectors.
- King’s Trust
Free support to start a business | Enterprise programme
The King’s Trust’s free Enterprise programme helps 18 to 30 year olds develop skills and knowledge to launch and grow a business.
- Devon Communities Together
Enterprise and business support | Devon Communities Together
Devon Communities Together offer enterprise and business advice, support and training to help SMEs, start-ups, rural and social enterprises, e.g. community businesses, shops and community pubs, and entrepreneurs to start up and grow.
- Cosmic
Website Design, Tech Support, Digital Skills Training and Consultancy | Cosmic
Cosmic are a Social Enterprise that believes in the power of digital inclusion to transform lives, businesses, and communities. They empower people through technology, ensuring that everyone has the skills, resources, and confidence to thrive in today’s digital world.
- North Devon+
North Devon+ are the economic delivery agency for the area, working with Torridge District Council, North Devon Council, Devon County Council and the private sector to deliver projects and initiatives that support business growth, improve the quality of life and address social inequalities.
- Business Information Point
Small Business Advice & Support | Business Information Point
Business Information Point work with Government departments, national agencies, local authorities and corporate partners, they secure funding to bring free guidance and support to our business and agricultural clients.
Typically, funded support programmes include:
- One-to-one sessions with experienced business or agricultural advisors
- Ongoing phone and email support
- Expert-led workshops on strategy & planning, finance, marketing, digital skills, sustainability, HR and more.
- Support with loan and grant applications.
Current business support programmes
UK Shared Prosperity Fund
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF or the Fund) is a central pillar of the UK government’s ambitious Levelling Up agenda and a significant component of its support for places across the UK.
There are three investment priorities:
- Community and Place
- Supporting Local Business; and
- People and Skills.
The funds for 2025/26 were allocated by the DTCCA to districts based on the previous year allocation.
To view UKSPF information for each area in the region, follow the links below.