4 minute read
Find your way forward
Locate East Sussex explains how, as the Inward Investment agency for East Sussex, it supports businesses in the county or looking to join the county to reach their growth ambitions
It’s safe to say that everybody has dreams and ambitions, and for business owners those dreams could be anything from staying profitable to world domination. Something, however, that is common among business owners, is being unaware of the support that is available to them locally to make those dreams become reality. With the changing landscape of modern business since the Covid-19 pandemic, many are relooking at their five-year plans, to assess if they are on the right path or if essential changes should be made. Locate East Sussex, fully funded by East Sussex County Council, the five District and Borough Councils and by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) are here to provide support to businesses looking to grow within, or relocate into East Sussex. It is there to listen, guide, and advocate for the businesses of East Sussex.
Since it was established in 2013, Locate East Sussex has been there to help businesses discover the opportunities available to them for growth. This
❛❛ We went to Emily at Locate East Sussex when we wanted advice on growth and support for funding applications. Over the time working with them we received so much useful advice, guidance and valuable information. We couldn’t have asked for better and more personal support and would recommend to any business in the East Sussex area ❜❜ Josie, To The Rise Bakery
includes 12 hours free advice on topics such as financial planning and strategy, support in applying for business finance and grants, help finding the right commercial property for them, or simply introducing them to make the right connections for their business.
With a proven track record, Locate East Sussex has supported hundreds of businesses, handled thousands of enquiries and been integral to the creation and safeguarding of over 800 jobs. Locate East Sussex is also the delivery partner of East Sussex County Council’s ‘East Sussex Invest Fund’ (ESI). The ESI grant and loans programme, has provided over £6m in support to businesses looking to grow, and create jobs within the county. With grants of between £10k-£25k and loans of £10k-£200k, this scheme has helped many businesses get the boost needed to complete their plans.
The team of accomplished Business Managers at Locate East Sussex are passionate about business and about East Sussex, and with over 100 years of management experience between them, they have all the right knowledge and contacts to put you on the right track. The reviews speak for themselves, and with many businesses being referred to the service by previous clients, the value Locate East Sussex can deliver to you and your business is clear.
❛❛ I’m now entering my third year of running a successful small business. At my first meeting with Chris Thomas from Locate East Sussex, anxious would’ve been an understatement. I was out of my comfort zone and lacked any sort of confidence or coherence in voicing my aims and ambitions. With time and a lot of patience, Chris helped me push past that barrier and provided me with the skills and knowledge I needed to get my business off the ground. I am absolutely certain that the knowledge I gained from working with the Locate East Sussex scheme provided me with the skills needed to not only adapt, but actually thrive during the difficulty of the last couple of years ❜❜ ❛❛ Focus SB Limited are starting to see the fruits of investment into a brave new market in China and it all started two years ago with an ESI loan and grant supported by Locate East Sussex. The process was very easy and painless, mainly thanks to the help from Adam Berger and the great support team! We will definitely be using their services again in the future! ❜❜ Gary Stevens, Focus SB
Eleanor Seymour, Lana’s Basket
East Sussex is quickly proving itself to be a hot location for business, with millions being invested into infrastructure, connectivity and town regeneration, and commercial property prices remaining competitive in comparison to the surrounding areas. East Sussex is getting noticed for its stunning location, talented people and its commitment to ongoing improvement, making it an exciting proposition for those looking to grow their business.
