A new project designed to help innovative businesses has been launched in Dorset.

STRIDE Dorset is aimed at small-to-medium enterprises and start-ups which would benefit from expertise, practical help, advice and possible funding.

Business representatives at the event, held at the BattleLab in the Dorset Innovation Park, near Dorchester, heard from various speakers. They were able to network and benefit from one-to-one sessions with experts in numerous fields, including finance.

Having run a similar successful programme in Cornwall, the STRIDE team from the University of Plymouth gained funding to replicate the project across the whole of Dorset.

In collaboration with Dorset Council, the launch heard from Programme Manager Jo Hancock.

She explained that the project was intensive and would conclude on Valentine’s Day next year - and was confident that businesses who took advantage would see impact within their business. Jo said afterwards:

“The project in Cornwall has delivered real, tangible results for businesses and some of these case studies were highlighted at the launch. We will be holding masterclasses, specialist surgeries and innovation exchanges."

“Experts are on hand to help and we are able to assist with product development and prototyping. Up to three businesses will also qualify for special intensive support in order to help them exploit new ideas leading to the launch of a new product or service."

“There are also a number of funding options available and towards the end of the project we will hold a business conference at the BattleLab with an array of speakers.

“I would urge innovative businesses across the county to take a few minutes to see what STRIDE Dorset can do for them. We’d encourage businesses to engage to discover the tailored support to help commercialise new opportunities.”

Attendees also heard from Dorset Council’s Innovation Lead Colin Wood, military expert Julius Davidson of BattleLab, Brent Treloar, of the South West Investment Fund and Chris Godolphin, STRIDE Research Engagement and Business Officer.

Dorset has more than 63,000 businesses and last year more than 8,500 start-ups were registered.

Funding for STRIDE Dorset was secured from Government’s Shared Prosperity Programme. Dorset has more than 63,000 businesses and last year more than 8,500 start-ups were registered.

Councillor Richard Biggs, Dorset Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Property and Assets and Economic Growth said:

“The launch of STRIDE Dorset is fantastic news for businesses in our area. It’s encouraging to see so many local entrepreneurs eager to learn and connect through this programme."

“STRIDE offers valuable support and resources that can really help our small and medium-sized enterprises grow. I encourage even more businesses to sign up and take advantage of what STRIDE Dorset has to offer. Together, we can strengthen our local economy and drive innovation in Dorset.”