Help for your business
Help for your business
Businesses are what drive the economy forwards, and the North Essex Economic Board (NEEB) recognises that businesses have faced many difficulties over the last few years, and wants to support them through their challenges and onto growth.
In North Essex, there are over 30,000 businesses contributing significantly to the local economy. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up approximately 99% of these businesses, highlighting the importance
of targeted support and development programs.
That is why NEEB over the last 4 years has provided a number of fully funded support programmes to help businesses survive and thrive.
Pitch to Convince Programme
Pitch to Convince is a free online programme designed for small businesses who are ready to scale and stand out. Whether you’re seeking investment, new clients, or simply want to speak about your business with more impact, this programme will help you pitch with confidence.
Starting October 2nd
NEEB Link
NEEB Link is a dynamic new programme designed to empower and connect businesspeople across the five North Essex districts. (Chelmsford, Colchester, Maldon, Braintree and Epping Forest). Through a carefully curated blend of in-person and digital activities, the programme supports business growth, innovation and job creation.
The offer includes 10 in-person networking events, each featuring high-profile expert speakers, 10 co-working sessions, collaborative learning and cross-district business opportunity building.
Start Up Social – ARU
Join us for Startup Social. A new monthly meetup bringing together local founders, freelancers and early-stage entrepreneurs to share ideas, build connections, and gain insights from expert speakers.
📍 22 Oct | 12:30 | Arise Innovation Hub, Chelmsford
Featuring Jamille Sammour, co-founder of 5Y Technology, one of the UK’s fastest-growing AI and data startups, exploring how AI is shaping the future of business.
🍕 Expert talk, networking and pizza included.
🔗 Sign up: Startup Social Tickets, Wed 22 Oct 2025 at 12:30 | Eventbrite
Rebel + Business School
Ready to launch or grow your business? Rebel Business School has spent over a decade helping entrepreneurs like you turn ideas into thriving ventures. Their award-winning, no-nonsense approach strips away the jargon and gives you the tools you actually need to succeed.
Through our partnership with Rebel Business School, NEEB is giving you free access to Rebel+ — the all-in-one platform built for entrepreneurs who want real results.
Inside Rebel+ you’ll find practical training, on-demand workshops, and expert guidance designed to help you move faster and smarter in business.
What you’ll master:
✔ Start a business with zero upfront cost
✔ Sales strategies that win customers
✔ Build a website without breaking the bank
✔ Grow your audience on social media
✔ Navigate the legal essentials
✔ Pitch and persuade with confidence
✔ Stay productive and build powerful networks
✔ SEO that gets you noticed
✔ Negotiate like a pro
✔ Stay motivated when the journey gets tough
This is your chance to level up your business skills, build momentum, and take control of your entrepreneurial future.
Read our case studies
Take a look through some of our case studies here. From financial support, network building and business planning – NEEB partners can help!
Acessing Business Support
This programme came to an end on 31st March 2025. To access business support through other programmes please feel free to use the resources below
Ambitious Essex Growth Hub
The Ambitious Essex Growth Hub provides businesses in Essex with a single point of access to a wide range of local, regional and national support.
Backing Essex Business
Fully funded by Essex County Council and delivered by Let’s Do Business Group, Backing Essex Business is here to provide help for your business to grow, through advice, access to business finance, and training.