Kickstart the new year with dedicated business support, webinars and funding

North Kesteven District Council sent this bulletin at 02-01-2026 01:00 PM GMT

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Happy New Year from the Economic Development Team at North Kesteven District Council. We wish you a prosperous year ahead.

Programmes to support business growth

Get ahead on your business growth and development in the new year, by joining a dedicated programme of business support, available through Business Lincolnshire:

AI Adoption Accelerator - overcome barriers and implement practical AI solutions.
Retail Accelerator - flexible, high-impact support for independent retailers.
Low Carbon Lincolnshire - cut energy costs and boost efficiency.
Lincolnshire Farm Support Programme - build resilience and explore future opportunities.
Your Business Boost - fresh ideas, practical tools, and a clear action plan.

WinterLight event brings significant boost in footfall

On Saturday, December 20, North Kesteven District Council hosted WinterLight at Sleaford Market Place, a community event celebrating the winter solstice.

Visitor numbers exceeded expectations, creating a vibrant atmosphere and driving significant economic benefits for local businesses. Footfall during event hours (3pm–8pm) surged by an impressive 1,064% compared to the average of the previous three Saturdays.

This increase translated into more customers for shops, cafés, and restaurants, reinforcing the value of community events in supporting the local economy.

Thank you to all businesses who contributed to making this event a success.

Extended deadline for the Flourishing Community Grant

Applications for the Flourishing Community Grant close on Sunday, January 11. Grants of up to £1,500 (10% match funding required) are available for projects that make communities healthier, safer, and more inclusive.

Funding can support capital items such as defibrillators, play equipment, benches, and accessibility improvements. All projects must be completed by March 1, 2026.

Find out more and apply here.

Connect with Business NK on social media

Follow Business NK on LinkedIn, X or join our Facebook Group, where we share regular information, support and advice.

Business support

One-to-one business support available to North Kesteven businesses is provided by Business Lincolnshire's specialist advisors.

Visit www.business lincolnshire.com

The UK Export Academy has officially evolved into the Business Academy

UK Export Academy has expanded and is now known as the Business Academy. Content will now go beyond just exporting to also include general business advise and support.

Visit the Business Academy for access to valuable insights and resources tailored to business needs, under four themes: starting a business, running and growing a business, selling overseas and digital skills

Save the date for the Lincolnshire Leaflet Swap

The Lincolnshire Leaflet Swap will return this March, once again coinciding with English Tourism Week, taking place on Thursday, March 19.

Save the date and stay tuned for full details coming soon.

Webinars for the weeks ahead

08/01/2026 09:30-15:30

Business Start-up Essentials

08/01/2026 12:00-13:00

An hour on key Performance Indicators

12/01/2026 09:30-15:30

Business Start-up Essentials

15/01/2026 12:00-13:00

Social Economy Network: January 2026

For updates on any of the support available visit our Business NK website or Business Lincolnshire at www.businesslincolnshire.com.

Updates will also be available on our socials @BusinessNK

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