TLDR (too long didn’t read): What you need to know
Running a business can be overwhelming, especially if you feel like you have to solve everything on your own. This guide shares the best business support for small business owners in Cornwall and the South West that can help with finance, advice, training and growth.
Business support organisations in Cornwall and the South West
Running a business brings enormous responsibility. From managing cash flow and navigating regulations to winning work and supporting your team, the pressure can be relentless. Even the most resilient business owners face moments of uncertainty and self-doubt.
One of the biggest mindset shifts we see when supporting business owners is realising you don’t need to do everything alone. There is an incredible range of funded support, training and financial options across Cornwall and the South West designed to help small businesses succeed. Whether you need clarity, confidence, skills or capital, the right support can make a meaningful difference.
Below is a curated list of organisations that provide practical guidance, advice and funding to help take some pressure off your shoulders.
The Growth Hub – Cornwall and Isles of Scilly: Provides fully funded support to connect business owners with tailored advice, training and resources to plan, stabilise and grow.
Funding Circle – Government backed business loans: Offers government backed business loans through the Growth Guarantee Scheme, giving small businesses fast and flexible access to finance.
Federation of Small Business: FSB membership provides access to expert legal and business helplines plus a comprehensive online library of templates and guidance across HR, employment, tax, compliance, crisis management and more.
Cornwall Chamber of Commerce: Supports businesses with economic insights, events, networking opportunities and a strong community of like-minded business owners.
Digital Peninsula Network: Offers funded digital and creative training in Cornwall and the South West to help business owners and their teams strengthen digital capability.
Digital Futures Cornwall: Provides specialist digital skills courses designed to improve confidence with technology and support business efficiency and growth.
SWIG Finance: A responsible finance provider offering flexible loans and one-to-one support to start-ups and small businesses across the South and West.
South West Investment Fund – British Business Bank: A £200 million investment fund designed to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation, job creation and business development across the South West.
Start Up Loan – British Business Bank: Government backed start-up loans combined with mentoring and business support to help new business owners build solid foundations.
Mental wellbeing support for business owner
Financial uncertainty and business pressure can have a real impact on mental health. Gaining the right support is not only good for business, it is good for you. If you are struggling with stress, anxiety or overwhelm, our guide to mental health support for business owners offers further help and resources for wellbeing.
Ready to move beyond basic accounting?
At Harland, we work with purpose-led business owners across Cornwall and the UK. If you’d like strategic financial and business guidance to move forward with clarity and confidence, we would be happy to support you. If you’re new to Harland, book a discovery call to learn more. Alternatively, click here to find out about our business mentoring and advisory support.
