Business advice, start-up services and business support - Essex
Colchester Business Enterprise Agency (COLBEA)
What it funds
1:1 advice, signposting, start-up services, training and premises.
How to apply
Apply via the scheme website: https://www.colbea.co.uk/startup-businesses/
Last checked against the official source: 6 Jul 2026. Scheme parameters are set by the funder and can change — verify before applying, or let us do it for you.
Related schemes
Apprenticeship Funding (95-100% co-investment)
Department for Education
For non-levy employers, government pays 95% of apprenticeship training costs — and 100% for small employers taking on eligible young apprentices — plus £1,000 incentive payments in some cases.
Development Bank of Wales Business Loans
Development Bank of Wales
Flexible loans (and equity) from £1,000 to £10m for Welsh businesses — micro loans, growth capital, property and succession finance with patient terms.
Help to Grow: Management
Department for Business and Trade
90%-subsidised 12-week mini-MBA for senior leaders of SMEs, delivered by accredited business schools with 1:1 mentoring — participant pays only £750.