Start Up in Tees Valley: Darlington

Turning your idea into a business. One practical day to help you test your thinking, make a plan and take the next step with confidence.
About this Event

Starting a business is one of the most exciting things you can do. It's also one of the most uncertain. That mix of excitement and doubt,

'Is this a good idea? Do I know enough? Where do I even start?',

is something thousands of people across Tees Valley are thinking about right now.

This fully funded, practical workshop is designed specifically for people who are seriously considering taking the leap into self-employment or business ownership but want to make sure they're ready. Delivered locally it's a full day focused entirely on helping you test your idea, understand what it takes, and leave with a clearer picture of your next steps.

There's no theory or jargon, just real, structured support from people who understand what it's like to start from scratch.

What you'll take away

• A tested, honest assessment of your business idea
• A simple business model and early-stage plan
• Clarity on what funding, support and next steps are available to you
• A network of other local people at the same stage - so you're not doing this alone
• Confidence to move forward or the insight to pivot before you commit

Who is it for?

• People exploring their first business
• Aspiring sole traders or freelancers
• Those making a career change into self-employment
• Anyone who has an idea but isn’t sure where to start

📅 Date: 21 July 2026 | ⏰ Time: 09:30 - 16:00 | 📍 Location: Innovation Central10 John Williams Boulevard South, Central Park, Darlington, DL1 1BF | 👥 Facilitator: Enterprise Made Simple

This session is delivered by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council on behalf of the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, with places fully funded for eligible participants across Tees Valley (Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees) through the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Note: By signing up you are giving Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council permission to share your details with Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), our Local Authority partners and Enterprise Made Simple, to support with the organisation and delivery of these events. Your details will not be used for marketing purposes.