A new initiative which helps people get kick-started in business has been launched in Macclesfield.

Enterprising Macclesfield hopes to be a one-stop-shop for free advice and support to anyone wanting to set up their own social or commercial enterprise.

It is run by a Make it Macclesfield, a Community Interest Company which runs projects to raise the profile of the town.

The main aim of the project is to simplify the often confusing world of business by offering would-be entrepreneurs free coaching from leading business professionals.

It also links up with a group of expert advisors in the fields of finance, legal, IT, HR, sales and marketing, banking, branding, website and social media.

Entrepreneurs will be signposted to existing pots of funding to help get their venture off the ground. But eventually, Enterprising Macclesfield wants to be able to offer its own funding to applicants.

Ray Clarke - MD Shaping Business

Ray Clarke, managing director of Shaping Business, which is involved in the new initiative, said: “There are plenty of people in Macclesfield who have good ideas but are confused about where to go for support to get that idea off the ground.

“Enterprising Macclesfield will help them make that next step by providing a focal point for anyone wanting to start a business or social enterprise in our area.

“This free support is available to everyone, whether you want to set up a window cleaning business or whether you are coming out of AstraZeneca and not making the move to Cambridge.”

Mr Clarke is one of 12 coaches offering free help. Others include Philip Cole, David Gooda, Simon Hayward, Julia Marshall, Paul McGuire, Mike Rance, Tim Shercliff, Heather Tebay, Colin Townend, James Wallis and Gareth White.

Macclesfield MP David Rutley said the initiative could make a real difference to the local economy adding: “There is an entrepreneurial spirit in our town and it is so important for our entrepreneurs and small businesses to get access to the right combination of coaching support and funding to deliver successful enterprises.”

For more information and to contact the team go to enterprisingmacclesfield.co.uk