Business support programmes for business in Gateshead

This list brings together organisations that deliver business support programmes to help local businesses start up, grow, and develop. The programmes on this list are run by experienced providers and are designed to support businesses at different stages, across a wide range of sectors. 

These projects are funded by the North East Combined Authority through its Integrated Settlement.  

Support available through these programmes includes:

• advice and guidance for start‑ups and early‑stage businesses
• growth and scale‑up support
• skills, leadership and workforce development
• innovation, digital and productivity support
• low‑carbon and sustainability initiatives
• access to finance, funding and specialist expertise

Programmes are delivered in a variety of ways, including one‑to‑one support, workshops, mentoring, peer learning and structured programmes. Some offers are fully funded, while others may require a contribution, depending on eligibility and programme criteria.

If you'd like to know more about any of the support listed, or would like help identifying the most relevant programme for your business, please get in touch with us and we'll be happy to help.

Rural business support in Gateshead (Part of the North East Rural Growth Programme (2026-2029)

Gateshead's rural businesses can now access free, specialist business support through the North East Rural Growth Programme - a new three‑year programme running from April 2026 to March 2029.

The programme is delivered in Gateshead by Gateshead Council, working in partnership with Northumberland County Council, the North East Combined Authority, and specialist rural and sector organisations.

Its aim is to help rural businesses start, grow, diversify and become more resilient, while supporting jobs, innovation and sustainable growth in our rural communities. Over the life of the programme, the Rural Growth Programme will support hundreds of businesses, help create new jobs, and strengthen rural economies across the North East.

Who the programme is for

• businesses located in rural Gateshead
• micro and small businesses
• farming and land‑based businesses
• food and drink producers
• rural residents aged 16+ looking to start a business (including social enterprises)
• businesses on the urban fringe with strong links to rural supply chains (for example farming, food, forestry)

What support is available

Rural businesses can access free one‑to‑one advice tailored to their needs, including:

• business planning and growth strategies
• financial forecasting and investment readiness
• marketing, sales and digital development
• workforce recruitment and retention
• productivity and resilience planning

Eligible wards

• Chopwell and Rowlands Gill
• Crawcrook and Greenside
• Lamesley
• Ryton, Crookhill and Stella
• Whickham South and Sunniside
• Winlaton and High Spen

Specialist sector support

Businesses can also access expert support aligned to rural sectors, including:

Farming and land‑based businesses

• dedicated Farm Advisory Service
• support with productivity, diversification and sustainability
• advice on agritech, innovation and cost reduction
• specialist guidance on woodland creation, agroforestry and diversification opportunities

Food and drink businesses

• tailored support for food producers, processors and hospitality firms
• access to mentoring, accelerators and peer networks
• help to strengthen local supply chains and reach new markets

Enterprise and start‑up support

For people looking to start a business in rural Gateshead:

• workshops, mentoring and enterprise advice
• support for commercial and social enterprises
• guidance from experienced rural enterprise advisers

This support helps individuals build confidence, skills and plans to start strong and sustainable businesses.

How to access support

To find out more, please use our contact form.