Open for applications: Bespoke support programme for Tower Hamlets businesses

We're really excited to be partnering with Tower Hamlets to launch the Pivot Project – a support programme that will help 50 small businesses in the London borough respond to the impact of COVID-19.

Applications for a place on the programme – which is aimed at businesses with the potential to survive and thrive – are now open. All Tower Hamlets-based micro and small businesses that employ up to 49 people are eligible, provided they were trading before the pandemic.

Those selected will receive a detailed action plan for their business as well as professional advice and equipment worth up to £1,000 to help them implement changes.

Enterprise Nation founder Emma Jones said the financial support that the Pivot Project will provide, alongside the expert advice, will help small businesses emerge from the pandemic.

"What is clear is that we're seeing a decade's worth of change happening almost overnight," she explained. "For some, pivoting their model may seem like an insurmountable and often unaffordable task, but we've got the experience to show them it is possible."

While Enterprise Nation will choose 50 firms for the Pivot Project, those businesses that either don't meet the eligibility criteria, or don't quite make the cut for the programme, will receive access to other assistance where possible.

"Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and we know that despite the support programmes introduced since the start of the pandemic, many of them are struggling," said Tower Hamlets mayor John Biggs.

"The way we live our lives has changed, which means the way we do business must change too. This programme is about offering practical on-the-ground support to companies that have seen a sudden change in their fortunes and their trading environment through no fault of their own."

Applications for the Pivot Project close at the end of March 2022.