Support for business success and growth

Find out about the latest business news from the Business & Investment Team at Central Bedfordshire Council

Local businesses shaping the future of transport in Central Bedfordshire 

Work to create a blueprint for the future of transport in Central Bedfordshire has begun – and we're asking businesses to get involved. 

If you run a business in Central Bedfordshire, we want you to help shape a new Local Transport Plan that will guide future plans, policies and priorities relating to roads, electric vehicles, public rights of way, cycleways, and public transport. 

Anyone who moves around, or in and out of, Central Bedfordshire is being asked about how they travel, what they think and feel about it, and what they think our priorities should be over the next 10-15 years. The views of local businesses are just as important, and there’s a separate survey we’re asking them to complete.

The initial engagement period runs until 30 June 2024. We’ll then prepare a draft Local Transport Plan before a formal consultation begins, expected to be during summer 2025.

Export support to engage in new markets and grow your business

Central Bedfordshire Council and Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce have launched an international trade support scheme for businesses registered in Central Bedfordshire. As part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), we will provide your business with:

•  free access to online international trade workshops

• guidance, intelligence, and support to help you reach new international markets

• assistance to address the challenges you may encounter

Find out out more how this export-readiness support programme can help grow your overseas trading and develop your export strategy.

IOSH Managing Safely course to Upskill your Staff

Council launches Culture grant scheme for businesses

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is part of the UK government’s levelling up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025.

We’ve been allocated £4.6 million of government funding, which will be used for local projects and inviting applications for grants for cultural projects.

The Cultural grants range from £500 to £40,000 and are available to organisations and individuals in the Central Bedfordshire cultural sector aimed at enhancing the lives of local people by having more opportunities to take part in and enjoy arts and cultural experiences.

Applications can be made up to Friday, 24 May 2024.

Central Bedfordshire is open for business. We look forward to supporting your investments in our area, while creating an excellent environment for businesses to grow, and people to live and work.

Find out more on the Be Central Bedfordshire website.