Local London Trailblazers
Currently not working? Got a business idea? Turn your idea into a sustainable income and a route back into work.
Explore, build and launch a viable business with free support across Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Havering and Redbridge.
180
Places Available
5
London Boroughs
Free
To Participate
Grant funding available*
*Subject to T&Cs
Who is this for?
Ready to get back into work on your own terms? Turn your business idea into a flexible way to earn.
Parents returning to work
Carers who need flexibility
Retirees looking for extra income
People managing long term illness or a disability
Residents who have recently stepped back from job-hunting
Students and recent graduates
What You'll Get
The programme offers a comprehensive range of support tailored to your circumstances, business idea and stage of readiness. Delivered in partnership by Gateley Global and European Innovation.
1-2-1 Enterprise Support
Tailored, practical advice aligned to your business idea, stage and circumstances — covering planning, pricing, marketing and next steps.
Group Workshops
Interactive workshops on starting a business, financial literacy, marketing, social media, digital skills and confidence building.
Mentoring & Guidance
Access to experienced mentors who provide encouragement, challenge assumptions and share real-world business insights.
AI & Digital Tools
Practical guidance on using AI and digital tools like ChatGPT and Canva to improve marketing, content creation and efficiency.
Business Planning
Support to develop a clear, realistic business plan — understanding costs, pricing, cashflow, customers and routes to market.
Grant Readiness
Guidance to help you understand what's required for start up grants available. These are subject to terms and conditions including assessing business readiness.
Local Networks
Connections to borough-level networks, local enterprise activity and relevant business support services.
Flexible & Inclusive
Support designed around your circumstances — caring responsibilities, health conditions, confidence levels and digital access.
Start Your Entrepreneurial Journey
Register your Interest
Ready to explore self-employment or start a business? Complete the form below and a Business Advisor will be in touch. The programme is completely free for eligible residents.
Your information is kept confidential and will only be used to contact you about this programme.
Your Journey With Us
The programme guides you step by step.
Expression of Interest
Register your Interest via the form below or through a referral partner. We'll get in touch to discuss the programme and what you're looking for.
Eligibility & Onboarding
We check your eligibility based on your borough and circumstances, then pair you with a dedicated Business Advisor.
Action Plan
Work with your advisor to create a personalised action plan with milestones tailored to your goals and readiness.
Business Plan
Develop a clear, realistic business plan covering pricing, costs, cashflow, customers and your route to market.
Mobilise & Launch
Register your business, access start-up grant funding where eligible, and begin trading with ongoing support.
Delivered in Partnership
- Gateley Global and European Innovation lead local delivery across all five boroughs
- Dedicated Business Advisors deployed to support each participant
- Coordination with borough partners, Jobcentre Plus and referral organisations
- Ongoing monitoring of KPIs, diversity metrics and outcomes
Accessibility
We are committed to ensuring the programme is inclusive, accessible and reflective of the diverse communities across Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Havering and Redbridge.
Demographic Monitoring
Monitoring of participation across demographics, ensuring fair representation of priority groups.
Hybrid Delivery
Hybrid delivery model with accessible venues and online options so everyone can participate, regardless of circumstances.
Language & Accessibility
Use of translators, plain English materials and relatable role models from local communities.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the grant?
Grant funding supports your approved, viable business plan. The amount awarded depends on what your business genuinely needs to start and grow and is agreed following a review of your business plan and supporting evidence. Grants are based on demonstrable need and eligible start-up costs and all grants must be evidenced and records retained. The grant is notionally up to £5,000, however grant awards on average are around £2,500, subject to T&Cs.
Will this affect my benefits?
No. Participating in the programme and receiving support will not affect your benefits while you are on the programme. However, we suggest discussing your benefits with your work coach throughout.
Do I need a business idea already?
Not necessarily, but it is beneficial to come with a concept that plays to your strengths and skillset. Whether you're exploring a business idea, refining a concept, or ready to launch, our advisors can support you at every stage of your start-up journey.
How long does it take?
The programme is designed to fit around your circumstances and to go at your pace. Most participants work with a Business Advisor over several weeks to develop their idea, complete a business plan, and access the support they need to launch their business.
What happens after I register?
Once you register, we'll contact you to complete the full application form, following that we will have an eligibility call to check your right to work and answer any questions around the programme. At this stage you will be onboarded and will be allocated a business advisor who you will arrange an initial appointment with. Together, you'll explore your business idea, create an action plan, access workshops and resources, and work towards developing a viable business plan. If appropriate, you may also be able to apply for grant funding to support your start-up.
Who is the programme for?
The programme is designed for residents of Bromley, Bexley, Greenwich, Havering & Redbridge who are currently out of work and are interested in starting their own business or becoming self-employed.
What support will I receive?
You'll receive one-to-one support from a dedicated Business Advisor, access to workshops, expert guidance on areas such as marketing and finance, and help developing a business plan. Eligible participants may also be able to access grant funding to support their start-up.
Is there any cost, ever?
No. The programme is fully funded, so all business support, advice, workshops, and guidance are provided free of charge to eligible participants.
How do I receive support?
Many elements of the programme can be delivered online, making it easier to access support around work, family, or other commitments. Some workshops or events are available in person, where it is a great opportunity to meet likeminded entrepreneurs who are starting their business journey.
What is expected of me?
We need you to be engaged, responsive, and committed to developing your business. By attending sessions, completing agreed actions, and taking initiative, you'll get the greatest benefit from the programme and maximise your chances of success.
Delivered in partnership with
Project Overview
The Local London Trailblazers Business Start-Up Programme is delivered by Gateley Global (GG) and European Innovation (EI), in partnership with Local London and the Mayor of London, and funded by the UK Government's Department for Work and Pensions. It supports residents across five boroughs who aren't currently in paid work – including carers, early retirees, people managing a long-term illness or disability, and people who've stepped back from job-hunting – offering a flexible, funded pathway into self-employment.
GG & EI Partnership
Gateley Global and European Innovation bring proven start-up, accelerator and inclusion-led delivery capability to the programme.
Community-Embedded
A local, data-led and community-embedded approach aligned to Local London priorities across five boroughs.
Five Boroughs
Supporting residents in Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Havering and Redbridge with personalised, culturally proportionate support.