Growing Routes was set up in 2003 by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society supported by Yorkshire Forward because both these organisations wished to see the rural community thrive. Growing Routes is now supported by the Rural Development Programme for England which is jointly funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the UK Government.

 

Growing Routes works alongside Business Link Yorkshire to offer a wide range of specialist, practical advice to ensure that new businesses get the best possible help to get started. This range of services includes:-

 

Stimulating innovation – helping people to identify opportunities and to make best use of available resources. This can help people satisfy long held ambitions or capitalise on their talents and strengths.

 

Developing business plans - you have the idea and we will help you to develop the skills necessary to produce a high quality business plan. We will also help you contact other organisations that can help you with your plans. The business plan will help prove the chances of success of the new business, will form an action plan for moving the business forward and will support any application for financial help that is required.

 

Mentor guidance - people with good business experience will help you during the critical early months of trading to help you overcome obstacles, develop your practical business skills and help you gain confidence in making important decisions.

 

Links to other organisations - who may also be able to help you.

 

A Business Network - giving you the opportunity to meet others starting up new businesses, develop ideas for your own venture and boost your confidence in promoting your business.

 

Grant Applications – if required, we can give you help to apply for grant investment from the Rural Business Start-Up Programme, part of the Rural Development Programme for England developed specifically for farmers and small rural businesses in Yorkshire and the Humber. Investments up to £10,000 are available from this scheme to support the initial set up costs of the new venture.

 

 

New uses for farm resources: - e.g. livery yards, tourist facilities, commercial workshops and offices, leisure facilities, commercial storage, pet boarding,

 

Adding value to farm produce: - e.g. on-farm butchery, farm shop, bakery, fruit and vegetable processing and packaging, brewery, milk processing, new markets for new products e.g. honey, herbs, horticultural products.

 

Creating a new income for personal skills and services: - e.g. creative crafts, domestic trade services, construction, gardening, walling, fencing, catering services, transport, horse and rider training, floristry, fashion

 

And many, many more.  Whatever your idea or ambition, please contact us to discuss this further.