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 This September, Invest Somerset Showcase 2025 invites businesses to a dynamic series of free-to-attend events designed to spark innovation and growth. From cutting-edge digital AI tools and high-impact business support programmes to exciting workforce development opportunities, plus insights into low carbon and high-growth sectors, this showcase is your gateway to unlocking new potential.
Spaces are limited so advance booking is required:
Credit: BIP
We’re funding ‘Somerset Start Up and Grow’, a free programme helping people turn ideas into successful businesses.
Delivered by Business Information Point (BIP), North Devon Plus, and Cosmic, it provides new and early-stage businesses with expert one-to-one support, workshops, and practical tools to get started and grow.
Participants begin with a one-to-one session via video call with an experienced business advisor to talk through their ideas and plans. They’ll then be supported to complete a comprehensive business plan that covers all the essential aspects to start and grow a sustainable business.
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Work is continuing on key Glastonbury Town Deal projects which aim to improve access for residents and visitors, both in the town and across the surrounding landscape.
These include the Robert Richards Initiative, named after and dedicated to the first Chair of the Glastonbury Town Deal Board, and the St Brigid’s Chapel and Field project.
Beautiful Somerset is back on the big screen, thanks to a new Swedish psychological thriller filmed largely on stunning Exmoor.
‘Unmoored’ will be available on major streaming platforms from mid-September, and possibly some local cinemas from mid-August.
 Somerset Council’s Leader, Cllr Bill Revans today (Friday 1 August), welcomed the formation of the University College Somerset (UCS) College Group.
The move sees Bridgwater and Taunton College and Strode College in Street merge to form the new group – one of the largest of its kind in the country.
 Food outlets such as cafes, sandwich shops and mobile caterers are being reminded of the importance of regularly reviewing their food preparation protocols to ensure that allergens don’t contaminate the products they serve.
And if businesses are unsure, they’re encouraged to contact trading standards for advice and guidance.
 We’re updating Somerset’s Local Transport Plan (LTP) and we want to hear from you.
The LTP is a key document that sets out how we plan and deliver transport across Somerset. It helps ensure that transport supports our wider goals – like improving health and wellbeing, protecting the environment, and supporting the local economy.
Our current plan is out of date and doesn’t reflect national policy or the challenges we face today. That’s why we’re creating a new plan that will guide how people and goods move around Somerset in the years ahead.
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Small Business Britain, in partnership with BT Group, is offering a free 6-week online programme to help small business owners harness the power of artificial intelligence. The AI for Small Business course covers practical applications such as automating tasks, improving communication, and enhancing marketing.
Participants benefit from expert-led weekly sessions, access to recorded content, and inclusion in a supportive peer community. The flexible format allows businesses across Somerset to engage at their own pace and sharpen their digital skills for future growth.
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Small Business Britain is offering the Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme, a free 6-week online course designed to support the growth of sole traders and micro businesses across the UK.
Tailored for accessibility and flexibility, the CPD-accredited programme includes live weekly expert-led sessions, practical worksheets, 1-to-1 and group mentoring.
Participants will develop a 12-month action plan for business growth and gain access to a supportive peer network and ongoing mentor engagement.
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The Food Standards Agency (FSA) believes in safe and sustainable food for all and is available to help food businesses navigate the essential guidance required to keep their customers safe, whilst running a successful business.
Their business hub offers a range of tools and free resources for food businesses.
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Film and television production can be great for the local economy and represents an exciting opportunity for Somerset businesses.
Screen Somerset, Somerset Council’s film office, supports, promotes and celebrates filming in the county in recognition of the economic and wider benefits. We have helped dozens of productions, large and small, film in the county – from daytime TV and adverts, right up to major blockbusters like 28 Years Later.
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 A new promotional film has been launched to inspire Somerset companies to apply for the King’s Award for Enterprise (KAE) – the UK’s most prestigious business accolade. Commissioned by the Somerset Lieutenancy, the 2-minute film spotlights Atlantas Marine, a Yeovil-based underwater surveillance firm that has tripled its turnover in 3 years.
The film, produced by former BBC correspondent and Deputy Lieutenant Clinton Rogers, will be showcased at the Somerset Business Breakfast at the University of Bath on 6 May, coinciding with the announcement of this year’s winners. It is available to view on YouTube.
Stock image by M. Richter from Pixabay
One password is believed to have been all it took for a ransomware gang to destroy a 158-year-old company and put 700 people out of work.
KNP – a Northamptonshire transport company – is just one of tens of thousands of UK businesses that have been hit by such attacks.
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Digital consultancy and social enterprise Cosmic is inviting local professionals to their next Cosmic Connects event, “Is Your Website Working As Hard As You Do?”, on Wednesday 20 August 2025 at the East Devon Business Centre in Honiton.
This free networking session includes a practical workshop led by web developer Jamie Dabrowiecki, helping attendees assess and improve their website’s design, speed, and mobile usability to boost engagement and conversions. With refreshments, informal networking, and a focus on digital skills, the event offers a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.
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SBA Communities, in partnership with BCDF, is offering a free 4-part online Business Start-Up Course beginning 3 September 2025. Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners, the programme combines interactive Zoom workshops with up to 4 personalised mentoring sessions.
Participants will gain practical tools, including worksheets and templates, and access to an optional online learning platform. The course aims to help attendees develop a viable business idea, understand key financials, and create a detailed business plan.
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Edventure Frome is inviting women from all backgrounds to join its Enterprising Women course – an immersive programme designed to help participants turn their business ideas into reality.
Running from 11 September 2025, the course offers hands-on learning in business planning, financial strategy, branding, and personal development. With a focus on peer support and practical action, it aims to build confidence, resilience, and entrepreneurial skills.
The opportunity is fully funded for women living in Somerset.
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Digital consultancy and social enterprise Cosmic are hosting another Cosmic Connects event, “The 4 Mistakes We All Make on LinkedIn” with LinkedIn coach Ashley Leeds on Wednesday 15 October 2025 at the East Devon Business Centre in Honiton.
The session offers practical insights into improving LinkedIn presence and engagement, with attendees benefitting from expert advice, informal networking, and refreshments, making it a valuable opportunity for professionals looking to enhance their digital visibility and connect with others in the region.
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The Great South West Partnership has announced the return of its flagship Annual Conference, the premier business event in the region, taking place on Friday 17 October at Sandy Park, Exeter.
Following the recent announcement of the UK’s new Industrial Strategy, this year’s conference theme – ‘Leading the delivery of the UK’s Industrial Strategy’ – positions the South West as an industrial powerhouse which is critical to the Government’s economic growth ambitions.
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Also, don’t forget to check the following websites for further upcoming events, ranging from online networking to in-depth workshops and in-person training sessions:
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