Enterprise Development Programme

Aspire launched our Enterprise Development Programme in 2019, designed to offer intensive, specialist, practical and tailored advice to anyone experiencing barriers to self-employment who would like to find out more about starting up a new business.

We're supporting people to develop their skills in starting up a wide range of businesses, including photography, boxercise, restoration, life coaching, beauty therapy, gardening services, web design and so much more!

If you are considering self-employment and would like some help to take your first steps towards realising your business aspirations, we offer friendly and accessible information targeted to your needs.

Our Enterprise Development Programme is now based at Aspire's St Thomas School building on Osney Lane, Oxford.

'Getting into Business' Course

On this course - run over two days - learners can explore business ideas, how businesses begin, and access practical advice about how to start their own businesses, and also offer a six-week programme of 1:1 direct support for clients.

"I have referred several clients to Aspire’s Enterprise Development Programme, and have always received very positive feedback. Nearly all have been inspired and report increased confidence after having been engaged. At least 2 have gone on to create websites and begin their freelance journey. This is a very valuable service and one that I hope will continue into the future."

- Samuel Haines, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust

“Practical course with great individual support in which ever area you need it - reassuring!”

- Natalie, course participant

"I really enjoyed completing the Enterprise Development Programme with Aspire. They supported me to set up my own business and were very knowledgeable and helpful with all of my, many, questions. I would recommend this course to anyone considering setting up their own business in Oxfordshire."

The Social Economy Growth Programme

In 2024, our Enterprise Development Programme will be supporting six months of community enterprise development activity through the Social Economy Growth Programme, in collaboration with OSEP, Co-op Futures and CAG Oxfordshire, via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

This new programme will improve the support available for community entrepreneurs, develop a peer-led support community and explore a local funding model to improve sector sustainability and resilience, enabling entrepreneurs and community businesses to share knowledge and experiences, foster growth and sustainability, and contribute positively to the local economy, society, and environment.

Get Involved

If you would like to find out more about Aspire's regular courses or alternatively how you could provide mentoring support to course participants, we'd love to hear from you. 

Please contact Luke, our Enterprise Advisor to find out more