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West Sussex Growth Hub

Autumn has arrived!

 

The mornings are getting cooler, the leaves are starting to turn, and there’s that unmistakable feeling of autumn in the air. It’s the season of fresh starts, cosy layers, and new ideas and a great time to check in on your business goals.

 

In this month’s newsletter, we’ve got updates on funding opportunities (including support for evening and night-time trading), upcoming events, and practical resources to help you make the most of the months ahead.

As always, we’re here to help! So if you’ve got a question, an idea, or just want to chat, we’d love to hear from you.

 

Who are we?

 


At the West Sussex Growth Hub, we’re here to help local businesses thrive. Whether you're just starting out, scaling up, or navigating change, we offer fully-funded, tailored support to help you grow with confidence.



From one-to-one advice, events, workshops and connections, we’re your go-to team for practical, friendly business support across the county. No matter your size or sector, if you’ve got goals, we’re here to help you reach them.



Want to chat? Get in touch at wscc.growthhub@westsussex.gov.uk.

 

 
 
 

 

Evening and Night time Economy Business Grant - Chichester District Council

 

Independent high street businesses in Chichester, East Wittering, Midhurst, Petworth and Selsey can now apply for grant funding to support evening and night-time trading.



Whether you're already operating after hours or planning to start, this funding can help you:
• Launch new customer offerings
• Boost footfall and spending
• Create engaging evening experiences
• Collaborate with other local businesses

Applicants must have a physical premises and submit a current business plan with their application.

For full details on eligibility, funding criteria and how to apply, visit Chichester District Council’s website here.

 
 

 

Upskill Your Business in 2026 with Enterprising Horsham

 

 

Planning to grow your business in the new year? Horsham District Council’s Enterprising Horsham programme has a fantastic range of fully-funded training opportunities lined up for 2026.



Whether you're looking to boost your marketing, build confidence, or stay compliant, there’s something for every business. Upcoming workshops include:

  • Masterclass on Instagram Reels
  • How to build your on-camera presenting confidence
  • GDPR essentials for small businesses
  • How to use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)

and more!

Workshops will run throughout early 2026, with bookings opening Friday 5 December via the website here.

 
 
 
 

 

One Hour. All About Your Business. Our Business Support Clinics.

 

Our 1-to-1 Business Support Clinics are running across West Sussex, giving you the chance to meet with a Growth Hub advisor in person for a dedicated one-hour session focused entirely on your business.



Whether you're facing a challenge, exploring new ideas, or just want to talk things through, these clinics are designed to give you practical, personalised support, right when you need it.

 

What you get:

  • A relaxed, confidential space to discuss your business
  • Expert guidance tailored to your goals and sector
  • Help with planning, funding, strategy, and social media content
  • A chance to ask questions and get clear, actionable advice

 

These sessions are free and available to businesses across the county. Just find the topic and location you would like to book on our Eventbrite here.

More coming for 2026! 

 
 

 

Out and About

 

The West Sussex Growth Hub team has been busy getting stuck into the local business scene. Over the past few months, we’ve had the pleasure of attending some fantastic events including the Create South East event, Brilliant and Bold Conference, The Better Business Show and more!

 

It’s been great to meet so many inspiring business owners, share what we do, and hear about the exciting things happening across the county. We love being part of these events and having the chance to connect, support and spark new ideas.



If you're planning an event and think we could add something - whether that’s having a stand, speaking, or just being there to chat with attendees, we’d love to hear from you!

 
 

 

 

Local Government / Public Sector

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