|
|
In this issue we’re inviting local businesses to share their views on proposed improvements to Wandsworth Town Centre, celebrating the business recently awarded a Royal Warrant by King Charles III and highlighting how you can apply for grants of up to £15,000.
You’ll also find out how to get involved in Sustainable September and Wandsworth African Caribbean Food Month, plus why we’re encouraging businesses to sign up to the Breastfeeding Friendly scheme.
|
|
Something delicious is coming to Wandsworth - get involved!
Local food businesses and community organisations are being urged to get involved in Wandsworth African Caribbean Food Month, which takes place throughout October.
The month kicks off with a special event featuring TV chef and Wandsworth resident Ainsley Harriott, find out more about the month here.
Here are some of the ways you can get involved:
- Host a Supper Club (support may be available with venues)
- Host a cooking workshop/demo or book a local chef for one
- Offer a promotion during the month
- Host a themed ‘Come Dine with Me’ style event
- Add a food twist to your existing October event
- Host a kitchen takeover
- Take part in pop up trading opportunities
The month is a great way to raise awareness of your business and culinary skills. Businesses taking part will be included in our online directory.
Share your event details via the expression of interest form by 5pm on Monday 8 September 2025 to be part of the official programme.
For an informal chat on how to get involved email weh@wandsworth.gov.uk
|
|
Sustainable September - Get involved
Sustainable September is back for 2025, celebrating and championing local sustainability initiatives in Wandsworth.
From repair cafes, harvest festivals and planting, there are lots of free events happening on your doorstep during Wandsworth’s Sustainable September! You can get involved by running an event, attending an event, or by simply spreading the word!
Register your event to appear on the programme guide and receive free promotion. Check out the full programme from the end of August here.
Any questions, email the team.
|
|
Microgrants of up to £250 available
Businesses and organisations who work with older people and adults in the borough are invited to apply for up to £250 to host an event as part of the Wandsworth Brighter Living Fair.
Brighter Living happens throughout October, with community-based events across Wandsworth to promote healthy, safe and independent lifestyles for older people.
The deadline to apply to the Brighter Living Fund is midnight on Sunday 24 August 2025.
|
|
Venues Wanted!
Do you run a restaurant, café or community centre that can be hired during October?
Register your space to host a supper club/cooking workshop and be part of our African Caribbean Food Month and London Borough of Culture celebrations.
|
|
Creatives: Apply for an award of up to £1,000
The Micro-commissions programme gives awards of up to £1,000 to support Wandsworth based creatives, during the London Borough of Culture year, to create new artworks.
With a straightforward application process, the aim is to pilot new ways of supporting the borough’s cultural sector and to nurture local talent.
These micro-commissions are open to Wandsworth based creatives only. Successful awards will be inspiring ideas around the theme of health and happiness.
To find out more about the application process and what is on offer click here.
|
|
Supply Wandsworth kicks off its Fit To Bid Programme
The Fit To Bid® programme, provides SMEs with a proven structure, practical tools, and strategic insight to grow confidently, stand out in competitive markets, and secure more contracts.
Watch a recording of the launch session here.
Next steps:
- Book a 1-2-1 tender advice session with Roderick Cameron here.
- Save the date - Meet the Buyer event 2 October, 3pm-6pm
-
Register your details here to be added to the Wandsworth Supplier Directory
For further information, please email here.
|
|
Nominations open for the PRECIOUS Awards!
Nominations are officially open for the 19th annual PRECIOUS Awards. The event honours excellence, resilience, and leadership among women of colour across a wide range of industries, from entrepreneurship and innovation to creative media and community impact.
Do you know a woman who’s changing the game, breaking barriers, or inspiring others? Whether she’s leading a business, hosting a powerful podcast, or mentoring the next generation, this is your chance to celebrate her.
Deadline: 30 September 2025
|
|
Wandsworth Town improvements - Have your say!
Wandsworth Council is making improvements to Wandsworth Town Centre – and they want to hear about your real experiences of walking, cycling or travelling through the area to help guide further changes and make it a better place to live.
Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport, was recently joined by Will Norman, London’s Walking & Cycling Commissioner, and Helen Cansick, TfL’s Head of Healthy Streets Investment, to walk around the town centre and talk to residents about what changes they would like to see.
Wandsworth Council and TfL are now working together to develop viable options for the town centre and listening to local communities so they can renew the area for people living there and travelling around.
Visit the website to fill out the online survey, drop a pin on the map or just find out more about changes in the town centre.
|
|
Chocolate Films appointed Royal Warrant by King Charles III
Nine-Elms based video production company and social enterprise Chocolate Films, is proud to announce that it has been granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment by His Majesty King Charles III. This highly prestigious endorsement recognises Chocolate Films for its service to the Royal Household and Royal Collection Trust.
This appointment is not only a significant achievement for Chocolate Films as a creative agency, but also as a social enterprise. The company reinvests its profits into community filmmaking programmes across the UK, working with young people, underrepresented voices, and those with limited access to the creative industries.
Chocolate Films is currently the only video production company of its kind to
hold a Royal Warrant.
“This is a landmark moment for us. As a small business and a social enterprise we are beyond proud to be honoured in this way.” said Mark Currie, Director and Co-Founder of Chocolate Films. “It’s a testament to the creativity and commitment of our team, and to our unique approach to film production — combining storytelling, craftsmanship and a strong social mission.”
|
|
Sign up your business for the Breastfeeding Friendly scheme
The Breastfeeding Network have launched their Breastfeeding Friendly scheme which is a growing network of businesses and community spaces across the borough committed to welcoming and supporting breastfeeding families.
Since launching in April, 29 local businesses/venues have joined the scheme, including family hubs, libraries, cafes, GP surgeries, sports facilities and pubs. Each venue displays a clear sticker in their window to let families know they are welcome to breastfeed there without judgement or pressure.
The scheme is open to businesses, venues or organisations that wish to sign up to show that they actively welcome and support breastfeeding families. Find out more about the benefits of registering here.
|
|
Apply for grants between £2,500 and £15,000
Community Spaces and Inflationary Pressures Fund 2025 - This new grant fund has been set up to support local voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations as they respond to the rising cost of living.
There are two main priorities to this funding:
-
Priority 1: Funding for projects that support residents with the rising Cost of Living, in particular community spaces and food projects with a focus on building capacity and sustainability
-
Priority 2: Funding core programme costs for organisations who are struggling with inflationary pressures due to proven increased demand on their services (which directly support residents being impacted by the cost of living), with a focus on moving to longer term sustainability
This funding is only intended to see organisations through a time of increased demand and inflationary pressures and should be considered as one-off funding. Therefore, applicants will be asked to consider how they can build their resilience and core service capacity to operate on a more sustainable footing in the future.
To find out if you are eligible click here.
|
|
Apply for the Ignite Business Support Programme
The Ignite Programme which runs until March 2026, builds on years of success helping founders turn ideas into income and small businesses into scalable ventures.
This FREE, council-backed programme gives you access to expert mentors, hands-on training, and real-world strategies to help you grow faster, smarter, and stronger.
Want to see what support you will receive? Watch their video here.
|
|
Peabody Works in Battersea launches
Do you run a small business in the cultural/creative or tech industries? Do you need space near where you live to make and create? Then check out the new affordable workspaces in New Mansion Square, Battersea.
They have a range of private office units, reflecting a 50% discount on the market rate. They also have a number of dedicated desks in their shared co-working space for £150 a month.
|
|
#NewBizOnTheBlock
|
|
Carney's Community launched its second social enterprise Carney’s Cycles a bike shop providing reconditioned bikes and basic maintenance, while creating training and job opportunities for young people. All profits are reinvested into the project or go directly to the young people they employ.
The Mayor of Wandsworth attended their official launch to celebrate the opening.
Albert Studios, Albert Bridge Rd, London SW11 4QD
Open Saturdays, 10am–2pm
|
|
Wandsworth Sustainability Network
|
|
Where: Doddington and Rollo Community Roof Garden, SW11 5HD
When: 9 Sept, 5.30 - 7.30 pm
This event will kick off an exciting month of Sustainable September, where there will be a marketplace to champion local climate and environmental initiatives. Get in touch if you would like to take part in the marketplace.
Meet neighbours and local businesses alike who are passionate about the environment and sustainability. This event will have a biodiversity theme and all are welcome to attend.
|
|
|
Where: Putney Library, SW15 2DR
When: 1 Sept
Need focused, tailored marketing advice to grow your business or creative project?
Whether you’re refining your brand, planning a campaign, or looking for ways to reach more customers, this specialised 1:1 clinic will give you expert insight and an actionable plan.
|
Creative Marketing Business Clinic
|
|
Wandsworth African Caribbean Food Month Launch
|
|
Where: OSMO Battersea, SW11 7EU
When: 2 Oct, 6 - 9.30pm
Join the council for the launch of Wandsworth African Caribbean Food Month.
The event will feature an inspiring panel discussion and a special interview with Wandsworth resident Ainsley Harriott.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to learn, taste and celebrate the vibrant culinary heritage of Africa and the Caribbean!
|
|
Business Support Services |
|
Wandsworth Enterprise Hub
Need business support, events or programmes to help start or grow your business? Look no further than the Wandsworth Enterprise Hub.
Business and Licensing
Visit the Council's Business and Licensing page for information on business licensing, business rates, business premises and much more.
|
My Virtual Wandsworth
Want to promote your business to local residents? My Virtual Wandsworth features more than 600 local businesses – make sure yours is one of them! List it in our online directory.
Cost of doing business support
We have put together a page of support to help your business navigate the challenges of increased costs.
|
|
|
|
|
