Setting up a business

• Information from Business Link West Yorkshire:
  • How can I get advice about setting up a business?
  • How can I find out if I'm eligible for any business funding?
  • Where can I get advice about business planning?
  • Where can I get information about business awards?
  • Where can I get information about business grants?
• How can I find out if I am eligible for european funding?
• What does the Economic Development Service do?
• Can I get advice about community-based economic development initiatives?

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How to contact us

Information from Business Link West Yorkshire

• How can I get advice about setting up a business?
• How can I find out if I'm eligible for any business funding?
• Where can I get advice about business planning?
• Where can I get information about business awards?
• Where can I get information about business grants?

Email: info@businesslinkyorkshire.co.uk
Tel: 08456 048 048
Website: www.businesslinkyorkshire.co.uk.

How can I find out if I am eligible for European funding?

The European Unit within Economic Development Service (EDS) aims to support and advise organisations applying for EU (European Union) funds, from developing project ideas through to applying for funds or how you can get involved with wider partnership work.

The EU Competitiveness Fund - which includes both European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and European Social Fund (ESF) - is the programme to deliver activity within the Kirklees area. ERDF is designed to support the promotion of innovation, research and development, entrepreneurship and business growth, with an emphasis on the knowledge economy. The programme will be managed through Yorkshire Forward.

If you have a potential project which you think may be able to secure European funding you can get advice and support on the next steps by contacting:

The European Unit
Email: europe@kirklees.gov.uk
Tel: 01484 221682

There are no deadlines set for project submission - it's a rolling programme.

The European team can help you develop your project and support you as the project goes through the appraisal process. The unit can also offer ongoing support on evidencing and monitoring your projects and on developing appropriate systems.

The ERDF programme is managed by Yorkshire Forward - their website contains all the documentation and additional information you will need.

• Yorkshire Forward - ERDF Operational Programme 2007-13 (external site)

What does the Economic Development Service do?

The Economic Development Service (EDS) offers a range of services to individuals, organisations, businesses and communities in Kirklees to promote and assist the development of a dynamic and thriving economy.

Examples of these include: funding for new job creation, provision of managed workspace, securing external funding for economic and regeneration initiatives and a range of marketing and development services to enable investment and to support the local tourism industry.

Can I get advice about community-based economic development initiatives?

Email: mary.snadden@kirklees.gov.uk
Tel: 01484 221412