Website: https://businessnorthtyneside.co.uk/
The Business Factory is a business support initiative delivered by North Tyneside Council in partnership with the North Tyneside Business Forum to help local residents and entrepreneurs start and grow their own businesses. It’s aimed at people at all stages of the business journey — from those just exploring the idea of self‑employment to established small business owners looking to expand or develop their operations.
The Business Factory offers a comprehensive suite of support services tailored to individual needs. For people considering self‑employment or just beginning to develop a business concept, the programme hosts welcome sessions, workshops and advisory meetings that cover topics such as writing a business plan, understanding legal structures, marketing basics and financial management. These sessions are designed to demystify the process of starting a business and equip aspiring entrepreneurs with practical knowledge and confidence.
Beyond start‑up support, The Business Factory also assists established businesses with one‑to‑one consultancy, growth planning, access to funding information and networking opportunities. Its advisers bring their own experience of running businesses, which helps them offer grounded, relevant guidance. There are themed workshops, peer‑to‑peer events like “Enterprise Club” networking, and tools such as the 24/7 Business Toolbox — an online portal with planning tools, industry resources and factsheets for ongoing reference.
Importantly, The Business Factory serves as more than just an information service — it fosters a community of local entrepreneurs. Through success stories like those of LamasaTech and North East Family Fitness, the programme highlights how tailored support helps businesses adapt, innovate and grow, whether that’s pivoting a product offering during challenging times or expanding to larger premises.
Operating from locations such as the North Tyneside Business Centre in North Shields, The Business Factory is a free, publicly funded resource aimed at strengthening local economic resilience and supporting sustainable business development across North Tyneside.