THE ROAD TO SUCCESS
The Leap Programme Is Delivered In Three Stages:
LEAP Start-up Programme
A FREE Business Start-up Programme for Residents of Eastbourne Borough Council
LEAP is a no-cost business start-up initiative offered by Edeal in partnership with Eastbourne Borough Council. Fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this comprehensive support programme includes the chance for one candidate who completes the best business plan to win a £500 grant!
The LEAP 2025 candidates celebrating at the LEAP Awards event at The View Hotel, Eastbourne.
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Stage 1
Attend a one-day business start-up workshop. The workshop will cover everything you need to consider when setting up a new business and will lay the foundations to support you to complete a business plan.
This workshop will take place at The View Hotel in Eastbourne on 24th June 2025.
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Stage 2
After the workshop, up to 15 selected participants will be matched with a dedicated business mentor who will assist in developing a solid business plan. Additionally, candidates will attend three 3-hour workshops focused on Finance, Legal, and Social Media Marketing. These workshops will be offered both in-person (during the day) and online (in the evening).
Once the business plans are completed, they will be submitted for evaluation. Five finalists will be chosen to pitch their plans at a mini–Dragons Den event, where one winner will be selected. The winner will be announced at a networking awards event and will receive a £500 cash prize.
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Stage 3
Ongoing mentoring will be available to support candidates as they launch their new business.
Please note registration for the programme is now closed.
application criteria
Who can attend?
The programme is open to any resident based in the Eastbourne Borough local authority area who aspires to start a new business. We will also accept bookings from businesses based in Eastbourne who have been trading less than 12 months.
Customer Testimonials
Don't just take out word for it. See how we've helped others.
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Social Media 1-2-1
The trainer responded to all the points I raised and helped find solutions. The time was used very well. She also checked other things and explained changes to Facebook which were upcoming.
Social Media 1-2-1
They made it interesting and tailored to our needs, which was particularly good as there was differences in the group in social media experience and understanding.
Social Media 1-2-1
The trainer was patient in explaining things I had questions on as she went. Very methodical at a good pace.
1-2-1 Advice
The business advisor understood the support I needed at the time of the meeting and gave me the reassurance and confidence to pursue my strategy development programme.
LEAP Programme
I really enjoyed the quality of the teaching, materials and content in the workshops; Being in real-world face-to-face sessions with other local entrepreneurs from different sectors; The sessions with a business mentor who was not only of practical help but also helped to motivate me and made me feel accountable to someone; Having a deadline, which made me complete my business plan. The kind and helpful LEAP team who were very supportive (especially Sandra who I liaised the most with). The Celebration event was very generous and had a great atmosphere.
1-2-1 Advice
The Edeal business advisor was very good at understanding our business and what we want to achieve, helping come up with ideas to help our business function better and become more profitable. She is relatable and informative.