Social Entrepreneur Sought for Brentford

To deliver a community business on Brentford High Street

The deadline for budding entrepreneurs to apply to run a 'social enterprise' in Brentford High Street has now been extended.

The Brentford High Street Steering Group and Hounslow Council are jointly calling for expressions of interest before 8 January from social entrepreneurs interested in a rent-free shop unit and a package of business and financial support.  The offer includes: 

• a well-presented retail unit with High Street frontage
• a rent-free development period
• 12 months business support
• 80% business rates relief if constituted as a charity, and
• a start-up grant conditional to delivering specific social outcomes over first three years – and ideally beyond.

In return, the entrepreneur will be expected to give something back to the community, engage with local residents and businesses, and help to attract new customers to Brentford. The business will need to provide a robust financial plan which shows it is financially sustainable and applicants must have the drive and resources to launch the enterprise. The business would ideally fit the planning class of the shop which is retail, but could apply for a change of use. The premises, presently branded ‘Brentford Works’, are not suitable for hot food take away use.

Cabinet Member for Communities and Economic Development, Councillor Sue Sampson, explains: "We are offering budding entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to set up shop in an upcoming part of West London and boost the local retail offer.  It's a great chance to get your business idea off the ground and to give something back to the community".

The deadline for expressions of interest has now been extended to 8th January 2015 and shortlisted applicants will have to provide detailed business plans by 26th January 2015 and make a presentation to a selection panel on 28th January.

For an applicants' pack, candidates are asked to visit Invest Hounslow or contact rachel.victor-sampson@hounslow.gov.uk.

December 18, 2014