RISE (Reboot, Ideas, Skills, Enterprise) Hastings, a business and skills support programme, concluded in March 2026 - and Let’s Do Business Group proudly look back on the successful programme which supported over 300 local businesses and created and protected over 20 jobs.

The Backing Essex Business programme concluded in 2026 after nearly five years of delivering tailored advice, skills development, peer networking and bespoke support to businesses across Essex – having supported over 2,300 businesses, and creating over 1,000 jobs in the county

Luton Council is celebrates the success of the Luton Online Digital Marketing Launchpad, a two-year programme that has supported hundreds of local businesses to strengthen their digital presence, build confidence and grow sustainably.

Over three years, Let's Do Business Group has delivered free, specialist business support to start-ups and scaling businesses across Southend-On-Sea, commissioned by Southend-On-Sea City Council and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. From one-to-one advisory sessions to fully funded workshops and access to finance, 259 businesses received tailored support that helped create 32.5 FTE jobs and safeguard a further 91 across the city.

Balaghi & Rose, a Luton-based specialist law firm, faced rising costs and an uncertain future before joining the Take The Lead Programme through the Luton Elevate Business Growth initiative. Through workshops, mentoring, and collaborative learning, the firm re-evaluated its strategy, completely redrafting its business plan and embracing new approaches to growth.

Let’s Do Business Group are delighted to share that they’ve been shortlisted for the Enterprise Support Organisation of the Year (over £750k turnover) award at the 2026 National Enterprise Network Awards

Rayleigh-based creative business, Studio 3 Art, has been crowned the winner of the Innovation & Tech Impact Award at the Rochford District Business Awards 2026, sponsored by Let’s Do Business Group.

The Newhaven Grant Schemes have closed after unlocking over £1.5 million in investment for local businesses. Delivered by Let’s Do Business Group in partnership with Newhaven Enterprise Zone, the programme supported commercial space improvements and low carbon initiatives across the town.

To celebrate International Women's Day 2026, Let's Do Business Group welcomed 16 local businesswomen to Freedom Works in Hastings for a day of expert-led start-up training, networking and celebration – all under this year's theme of Give to Gain. From business planning and marketing skills to meaningful connections with fellow entrepreneurs, the day was a reminder that when women in business are given the right tools and the right people around them, the gains reach far beyond the individual.

This International Women’s Day (IWD), we’re shining a spotlight on someone who has quietly – and consistently – been one of the most impactful champions of women in business in the Southeast region. Meet Lisa Young, a key member of the Let’s Do Business Group team and the driving force behind our Her Biz programme, which has supported aspiring female entrepreneurs over the past six years.

Ahead of International Women’s Day 2026, Let’s Do Business Group reflects on the success of the Women's Startup Programme, Her Biz, and how we have given to help others gain.

1705 Consultancy is a growing Southend-on-Sea business helping organisations and event venues manage safety, security and risk more effectively. With fully funded business support from Let’s Do Business Group, funded by Southend City Council, the company has strengthened its financial planning, strategy and growth plans, helping to expand while supporting clients with risk assessments, event safety planning and Protect Duty readiness.

Let’s Do Business Group are delighted to share the finalists of the Innovation & Tech Impact Award, their sponsored category at this year's Rochford District Business Awards, which will celebrate Rochford’s changemakers and businesses that are striving for growth in 2026 and beyond.

Celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with Let’s Do Business Group at a free, in-person event in Hastings designed to support women at the start of their business journey. Featuring practical business and marketing sessions, expert guidance, and face-to-face networking, this event embraces the theme Give To Gain by sharing knowledge, connections, and confidence to help women grow in business.

The Sewing Factory Ltd is a growing UK manufacturing business built on craftsmanship, quality, and a commitment to local production. As demand for their textile products increased, they faced significant recruitment challenges due to a shortage of skilled workers in the industry. Seeking support, they were referred to Backing Essex Business.

For decades, manufacturing has quietly slipped into the background of career conversations. Schools tend to highlight technology, finance, healthcare, and digital roles, leaving the perception that manual and craft-based industries no longer exist in the UK. But companies like The Sewing Factory are proof that manufacturing is not only alive, it’s full of opportunity.

This festive season, we have donated 10 teddy bears to the Friends of Conquest Teddy Bear Campaign, helping to bring smiles and comfort to children on Kipling Ward at Conquest Hospital, Hastings.

We are pleased to announce that Let’s Do Business Group has been awarded two significant contracts to deliver new, fully funded business-support programmes in Essex: Smart Start Brentwood and Innovate & Elevate Rochford District.

When David Robinson set out to grow his business, RunActive, he had three key goals in mind: expand the brand’s online presence, increase footfall in his retail stores, and secure financial stability to grow his team.

Let’s Do Business Group’s partnership with Newhaven Enterprise Zone continues to thrive, offering grants that drive business expansion and sustainable development across the town.