Business Support for the Southwark Pioneers Fund

In June 2019 Southwark Council agreed to establish the Southwark Pioneers Fund (SPF) to deliver our Council Plan commitment to invest in Southwark's entrepreneurs of the future. The underpinning aims of the SPF are to drive inclusive growth by supporting the creation or scale-up of commercial and social enterprises (including revenue-raising charities) that will: • Widen the diversity of people who own and lead enterprises in Southwark: Those from diverse backgrounds will be better able to access the support they need to start and grow their business or charity. • Increase access to a range of quality job opportunities which are fairly paid and sustainable, apprenticeships and paid internships. • Support Southwark enterprises to generate wider social or environmental value outcomes that support delivery of Southwark Council Plan commitments and/ or Southwark Council Common purpose outcomes. The SPF is comprised of three independent but complimentary programmes (the Grants programme, Loans and Business Support). This tender is in respect of the business support programme which aims to support local enterprises to survive, thrive and grow. In particular, those receiving funding from SPF grants and loans or those who are seeking investment from SPF or elsewhere. The council is seeking to procure a package of support including the following activities: • Tailored business support on a range of topics • Support with access to funding and affordable workspace • Coordination of in kind support offers including the development of a mentoring programme • Development of a network of those receiving support via the SPF The business support offer should develop local enterprises, enhance our entrepreneurship ecosystem, and drive inclusive growth.