Outset Cornwall

Outreach and engagement and delivery took place across the whole of Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, using a range of accessible venues appropriate for each segment of the target audience. Devon and Cornwall Homes, with 9000 homes throughout the region supported the project to further enhance the community penetration. Outset offered fast-track, evenings and Saturday delivery options.

After engagement and diagnostic, clients received a tailored and flexible service from the partnership according to their needs, profile, potential and circumstance, and whether pre or post start. Specific activities included peer workshops, learning action groups, online e-learning, 1:1 mentoring and coaching, launches, conferences and networking events with guest speakers from the business community, funded test training, expert seminars, and P2P support from the Outset community.

This wealth of support was modular, highly practical, designed and proven to deliver sustainable results not just in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly but across the UK. It encompassed all the vital learning and business skills development required to be a successful social or for-profit enterprise, whether lifestyle or highflyer, in parallel with a focus on individual development.  It integrated test-trading funding, and support to access a Start-up Loan or other seed finance.

Client groups included under-represented and disadvantaged people, such as unemployed, people with disabilities, low skilled, over 50s, BAME; high potential start-ups; social entrepreneurs; women; young entrepreneurs in education (FE/HE). Innovative and high growth potential start-ups came from any profile, and these enrolled on our enhanced, intensive fast-track provision and then be referred to the Growth Accelerator when ready.

The partnership provided a holistic continuum of high quality support for all, with seamless working behind the scenes to maintain our reputation for excellent client service.

Three programmes were delivered under this start-up support – Outset, the Engine Room and Spark.

Spark – Spark provided the insight and tools to move an idea or business forward. The programme offered a unique opportunity to launch your business in a supportive environment.  A range of workshops, events, guidance and 1:1 coaching supported participants with their business plan creation.

The Engine Room – This was a network for social enterprises, offering business support programme for pre start-up and start-up businesses in Cornwall that have a social purpose at the core of their business idea.

Through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) the Engine Room was delivered by three partners – Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change, RIO – the Real Ideas Organisation and the School for Social Entrepreneurs, Cornwall.

This phase of the Outset programme is now closed. However, a new phase was funded by ERDF in September 2019. Find out more about OUTSET 4 running until August 2022 here.