Derby businesses are encouraged to apply for grants and support from a project that is making a tangible difference to the city’s business community.

Since its launch last year, the Derby Accelerator project has provided adviser support to over 370 businesses, with 25 applying for grants and 19 receiving growth vouchers. These initiatives are expected to create 50 new jobs and safeguard 19 existing positions.

Managed by Derby City Council and funded by the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Derby Accelerator project is made up of five strands:

  • Start-up Accelerator: Providing support for individuals looking to launch their own businesses.
  • Net Zero Accelerator: Offering free energy audits and training to help businesses reduce their carbon footprint.
  • Digital High Street Accelerator: Connecting businesses with digital technology experts to enhance their online presence.
  • Innovation Accelerator: Providing intensive support to high-growth businesses.
  • Financial Accelerator: Offering growth vouchers and grants to help businesses invest in training, consultancy, and innovation.

One of the success stories of the project is Moko Physiotherapy, a health and wellness facility. Owners Katie and Martin Ogley successfully applied for a £12,000 Business Growth & Innovation Grant, with support from East Midlands Chamber business adviser Aruna Bhagwan.

Katie Ogley said:

The grant allowed us to build an additional consultation room to create a new service which offers women’s health, specialist physiotherapy. This has created an additional job for a Senior Physiotherapist in Women’s Health, which we appointed at the end of May 2024. Our new staff member is the only registered Mummy MOT practitioner in Derby, giving us a huge competitive advantage!

The grant has allowed us to continue our rapid growth and help a new client population which we were previously unable to help.

While it is too early to quantify the difference the new service has made, the clinic reports clinic revenue growth of around £6,500 over the last five months.

Another beneficiary is Derby Uncovered, a local heritage centre that promotes Derby and Derbyshire. Based on Sadler Gate, it opened its doors in February.

One of the biggest challenges for this community interest company has been the lack of footfall in the Cathedral Quarter. A high street grant from the Derby Accelerator project enabled the business to make alterations to its shopfront including adding barriers for their café seating area and a digital screen to promote tours even when the centre is closed.

David Turner, Managing Director of Derby Uncovered said:

We’re very grateful for the support. Chamber business adviser Steve Phillips was invaluable in terms of helping and guiding us through the process and it’s something that I’d recommend other business get in touch about. Our shop front now attracts more customers into our premises which in turn leads to more revenue.

Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber said:

The Derby Accelerator project is already paying dividends to businesses, whether it be through grant funding or access to innovation and other expert training and consultancy.

While the project is not due to end until 31 March 2025, funds are likely to be fully committed before then. I would therefore urge any Derby business that hasn’t already been in touch with the Chamber to do so as soon as possible to discuss any potential projects.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Portfolio Holder for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism said:

Getting access to the right funding can make all the difference for a growing business, which is why this project is invaluable. These loans and grants are here to help local businesses innovate, expand, and thrive.

By tapping into these resources, you’re not just investing in your own success – you’re also helping to drive our city’s economic prosperity.

Find out more and how to apply