What is an Enterprise Support Provider

Starting and growing a small business is an exciting but challenging journey. 

With over 99% of UK businesses classified as smaller enterprises, many entrepreneurs face hurdles such as securing funding, adapting to digital transformation, and developing strategic growth plans. 

This is where Enterprise Support Providers play a crucial role, offering expert guidance, training, funding opportunities, and networking support to help businesses succeed.

In this article, we’ve collaborated with the National Enterprise Network to explain what Enterprise Support Providers are, the services they offer, and how they can support small businesses across the UK.

What is an Enterprise Support Provider?

Enterprise Support Providers are organisations dedicated to helping start-ups, micro businesses, and growing enterprises. 

Organisations that come under the definition of Enterprise Support Providers include enterprise agencies, local authorities, business hubs, incubators, accelerators, and industry bodies such as NEN.

By bridging the gap between ambition and success, these providers equip business owners with the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to thrive. 

Whether launching a new venture, scaling operations, or seeking specialist support, enterprise support providers offer valuable resources and guidance.

Why businesses should engage with Enterprise Support Providers

Regardless of industry or business size, enterprise support providers offer essential resources that help businesses grow sustainably, become financially resilient, and navigate economic uncertainties. 

Engaging with a trusted Enterprise Support Provider ensures access to expert guidance, peer networks, and funding opportunities that accelerate success.

Whether you are a start-up founder, a scaling business, or a social enterprise, leveraging enterprise support services can unlock new opportunities, drive sustainable growth, and ensure long-term success.

Key services provided by Enterprise Support Providers

There are a number of services that a small business can turn to an Enterprise Support Provider for including:

Expert business guidance and mentoring

Starting and running a business involves countless decisions, from structuring the company to refining a business model. 

Enterprise support providers offer one-to-one mentoring, expert business advice, and strategic guidance, helping entrepreneurs establish a solid foundation for long-term success.

Access to funding and finance support

Securing funding remains one of the biggest challenges for small businesses. 

Enterprise support providers help businesses identify and access suitable finance options, including government grants, loans, and investment schemes. 

The British Business Bank works closely with enterprise agencies to connect businesses with tailored finance solutions.

Training and skills development

Enterprise support providers offer workshops, boot camps, and training programs covering essential business skills such as digital marketing, sales strategies, financial literacy, and leadership development. 

These learning opportunities help businesses remain competitive and adaptable in an evolving marketplace.

Networking and collaboration opportunities

A strong business network is as valuable as financial backing. 

Enterprise support providers facilitate networking events, peer support groups, and trade shows, allowing business owners to connect with industry peers, potential customers, and strategic partners.

Simplifying compliance and regulations

Navigating tax regulations, employment law, and industry standards can be complex. 

Enterprise Support Providers offer expert guidance on compliance matters, ensuring businesses meet legal obligations while focusing on growth and innovation.

How to find the right business support

If you're a business owner seeking support, you could consider contacting:

• the National Enterprise Network (NEN): A network of enterprise support providers offering expert guidance
• local enterprise agencies and Growth Hubs: region-specific support tailored to local business needs
• the British Business Bank including the Start Up Loans scheme
• Chambers of Commerce and industry-specific organisations: offering specialised business support.

A brief history of Enterprise Support in the UK

Enterprise support has been a cornerstone of business development in the UK for decades. 

The National Enterprise Network (NEN), established in 1993, has played a pivotal role in championing and coordinating enterprise support agencies across the country. 

Over the years, enterprise support organisations have evolved to meet the changing needs of businesses, providing structured guidance, training, and financial support to ensure entrepreneurs can navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

The role of NEN in supporting small businesses

The National Enterprise Network (NEN) has been at the forefront of UK enterprise support since its establishment in 1993. 

As an umbrella organisation, NEN champions the work of independent enterprise agencies, local authorities, and business support organisations that provide frontline assistance to thousands of businesses annually.

NEN members offer expert guidance and tailored training to help businesses grow sustainably. 

Their collective impact has strengthened the UK’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, ensuring that small businesses receive the support they need.

Success stories

Enterprise Support Partners help thousands of businesses per year, here are just a few examples.

Transforming a Passion for Baking into a Thriving Business

Saffah and Naila Hassam turned their love for baking into Butter Brûlée, a gourmet cookie café in Leicester, renowned for its award-winning La Original Cookie. 

However, as their business expanded, they struggled with financial management, marketing, and scaling operations. 

With support from NBV Enterprise Solutions, they refined their business model, improved operations, and enhanced their digital marketing strategy. 

This guidance enabled them to expand to a prime location, grow their team, and establish strategic partnerships.

Learn more about Butter Brûlée.

Empowering Entrepreneurs in Sunderland

Since launching in November 2023, Enterprising Sunderland has helped nearly 300 individuals explore self-employment, with 68 successfully starting their own businesses. 

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by expert partners, the programme offers workshops, mentoring, and online training.

One success story is Chris Larkin, a heating and plumbing engineer who launched C Larkin Plumbing & Heating in June 2024 after being made redundant. 

With business planning, marketing, and funding support, Chris has grown his business and hopes to offer apprenticeships in the future. 

Enterprising Sunderland’s community-focused approach is transforming lives and strengthening the city’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Read more about Enterprising Sunderland.

Scaling a Digital Marketing Consultancy

Lorri Ritchie, founder of Socially Mindful, transitioned from a corporate career to launching her own Google and Meta ads consultancy. 

Seeking guidance, she turned to STANTA St Albans Enterprise Agency. 

Their workshops on business planning and SEO helped her refine strategies, attract clients, and build a strong professional network. 

Initially focused on social media management, Lorri pivoted to digital advertising and now operates at full capacity, serving clients across the UK. 

STANTA’s structured support played a crucial role in her transition from a start-up to a thriving consultancy.

Read more about STANTA.