How to Seek Business Support in the North East

When you run a small business, knowing that business support exists is one thing. Knowing where to start, what type of support you actually need, and who to trust is another.

Many North East business owners put off seeking support because they’re busy, unsure what’s available, or worried it won’t be relevant to their situation. In reality, the right business support can save time, remove uncertainty, and help you move forward with more confidence.

The key is understanding the different ways business support is delivered — and what good support should actually feel like.

The Different Ways Businesses Can Access Support in the North East

Business support is not one-size-fits-all. Different challenges need different approaches, and most SMEs benefit from a mix of support rather than a single solution.

1. Workshops and Training

Workshops are often the first point of contact for many SMEs. When delivered well, they provide practical skills that business owners can apply straight away. Topics such as marketing, tender readiness, business planning, funding, or understanding finances help businesses build stronger foundations. Workshops also give business owners the chance to step back from day-to-day pressures and focus on working on the business rather than just in it.

2. 1-to-1 Business Support

For many SMEs, personalised support makes the biggest difference. 1-to-1 business support allows advice to be tailored to the reality of the business, rather than offering generic guidance.

These sessions often focus on problem-solving, decision-making, planning next steps, or building confidence around areas such as growth, cashflow, digital skills, or strategy. The value comes from having someone listen, ask the right questions, and help bring clarity.

3. Specialist and Skills-Based Support

Some challenges require more focused support. This might include help with marketing and social media, understanding accounts, preparing for tenders, or developing a clearer brand and online presence. Accessing the right expertise at the right time helps businesses avoid costly mistakes and move forward with more confidence.

What True Business Support Should Feel Like

Good business support doesn’t feel complicated or overwhelming. It feels relevant, practical, and grounded in the reality of running a small business.

True business support takes into account that SMEs are time-poor, often juggling multiple roles, and facing pressure from all sides. It focuses on real outcomes, not theory, and helps business owners leave conversations with clearer direction than when they arrived. Most importantly, effective business support meets businesses where they are, rather than expecting them to fit into a rigid process.

Where to Find Business Support in the North East

Across the North East, business support is delivered most effectively when local organisations work together to meet the needs of SMEs.

The SME Centre of Excellence has supported small businesses across the region, from Northumberland to Durham, working closely with local authorities and regional partners to deliver practical support where it’s needed most.

Through a combination of 1-to-1 business support and workshops, SME Centre of Excellence helps businesses navigate real challenges — whether that’s understanding tendering, improving marketing, building financial confidence, or planning for growth. Support is delivered in partnership with organisations such as Northumberland Small Business Service and Durham County Council, ensuring it is locally rooted and shaped by real business needs.

This collaborative approach allows support to reach start-ups, sole traders, and established SMEs alike, providing guidance that is accessible, relevant, and focused on helping businesses move forward at their own pace.

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