Business Support

Initiatives designed to help local businesses and community groups thrive.

For organisations seeking support and growth opportunities, the Southwark LAP provides resources and initiatives designed to help local businesses and community groups thrive. From funding opportunities to mentoring, our programmes offer a comprehensive guide to the resources available to help you take the next step

Our delivery partner Do it Now Now offers two key programmes designed to support local businesses and entrepreneurs:

The Southwark LAP Capacity-Building Programme is designed to empower early-stage organisations with the skills, knowledge, and financial support needed to build sustainable and impactful businesses. Delivered in two tailored support streams, this programme provides training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and funding to organisations committed to growing their work in the community.

Starting Up Programme

For organisations with £0-10k annual income

Starting Up is designed for organisations at the start of their journey, providing essential training and financial support to help them build strong foundations. The programme focuses on business fundamentals, governance, financial planning, and strategic growth.

What Participants Receive:

  • 4-month structured training to develop business skills and resilience.
  • 1-2-1 expert mentoring sessions to provide tailored support.
  • Networking opportunities to connect with like-minded peers.
  • Up to £500 in grant funding upon programme completion to help put learnings into action.

Expected Outcomes:

  • Organisations gain confidence in their business model and governance structures.
  • Improved financial management and long-term sustainability planning.
  • Participants leave with a practical plan for growth and access to key resources.

Who Should Apply?

  • This programme is open to organisations based in Southwark that meet the relevant income eligibility criteria. If you’re looking for structured support, mentorship, and funding to strengthen your organisation, this opportunity is for you!

Build, Hustle, Grow Programme

For organisations with £10-30k annual income

Build, Hustle, Grow supports organisations that are ready to grow, providing training on income diversification, investment readiness, and sustainability. This programme is ideal for those looking to take their organisation to the next level.

What Participants Receive:

  • 6-month training programme covering business scaling, governance, and fundraising.
  • Specialist 1-2-1 mentoring and office hours with industry experts.
  • Peer-learning and networking to share insights and collaborate.
  • Up to £3,000 in grant funding upon completion to invest in their organisation’s growth

Expected Outcomes:

  • Organisations develop sustainable income streams and financial stability.
  • Improved strategic planning and investment readiness.
  • Stronger networks and peer collaborations for ongoing support.

Who Should Apply?

  • This programme is open to organisations based in Southwark that meet the relevant income eligibility criteria. If you’re looking for structured support, mentorship, and funding to strengthen your organisation, this opportunity is for you!

For more information on these programmes and other business support, please refer to our dedicated Business Support page or visit Do it Now Now directly to learn more about how their programmes can help you build and grow your organisation.