Independent business development company Mentera has launched a new entrepreneurship initiative, SBARC Ceredigion.
The scheme, funded by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund and administered by the Cynnal y Cardi Team for Ceredigion County Council, is specifically designed to provide world-standard support to businesses in the county.
A total of 20 entrepreneurs have been selected across bespoke Tyfu and Ffynnu programmes and have successfully started their intensive support.
The Tyfu cohort, aimed at individuals with developing business ideas, successfully completed its first residential weekend in Cardigan. Participants benefitted from immersive workshops and networking, setting the stage for their journey. The cohort is now looking forward to a learning trip to Ireland to gain international insights from thriving businesses, followed by a second residential in Ceredigion.
The Ffynnu cohort, tailored for established business owners seeking expansion, recently held its intensive kick-off day at Tŷ Glyn, near Aberaeron. The full-day session featured talks from business experts and was designed to help participants define their strategic growth objectives, which may be financial, operational, or impact-based. Over the next few weeks, the entrepreneurs will receive dedicated 1:1 business mentorship to drive tailored growth plans.
Mentera also continues to invite applications to the Sbarduno programme, which delivers unique entrepreneurship workshops to young people, and is still open for bookings from schools and youth organisations across Ceredigion until December.
Llŷr Roberts, CEO of Mentera, said:
“We are immensely proud to see SBARC Ceredigion officially launched and the 20 entrepreneurs begin their journey. The commitment we've witnessed from both the Tyfu and Ffynnu cohorts is inspiring. SBARC is not just about local support; it's about giving these businesses the tools, the confidence, and the international perspective – as demonstrated by the upcoming trip to Ireland – to become world-standard players. This is a vital investment in Ceredigion's economic future, and it aligns perfectly with Mentera’s mission to enable Welsh businesses to venture and thrive.”
Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, added:
“It's fantastic to see the SBARC Ceredigion cohorts underway. This programme, delivered in partnership with Mentera and the Cynnal y Cardi Team, is a crucial element of our strategy to develop future employers and strengthen the local supply chain. We are committed to fostering an environment where local talent can thrive, and the activities already undertaken by these entrepreneurs show great promise for Ceredigion's economy and its communities.”
