Business Boost 3.0: Championing Digital Entrepreneurship in West Cumbria

Mitie is accepting applications for its third annual Business Boost competition which supports entrepreneurs and small businesses located in West Cumbria, North West England.

Business Boost 3.0 will focus on driving digital adoption by supporting competition winners with up to £40,000 in funding, a mentoring programme and access to workshops and networking opportunities.

Funding is being provided by Mitie and competition partners Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH), One Aim (a JV between Mitie and Amentum), and AtkinsRéalis, with all three organisations providing valuable input into the mentoring programme to bring business ideas to life.

Business Boost 3.0 is about more than funding – it’s about empowering local businesses with the tools, knowledge and connections they need to thrive in a digital-first economy.

Now in its third year, the competition has helped a range of local businesses access funding and expert guidance to support their growth and adaptability.

Gina Goulding, founder of Gina Bakes, accelerated her journey with a winning business plan developed through the programme last year.

Her business now supplies baked goods to Sellafield and has over 30 employees, as well as recently launching the Beach Road Bakehouse in St Bees, contributing to a thriving community.

Lesley Sewell, Strategic Account Director, Sellafield Ltd, Mitie, tells FM Magazine: “As a major employer in the region, we’re proud to continue investing in the entrepreneurial spirit of West Cumbria.

Business Boost 3.0 is about more than funding – it’s about empowering local businesses with the tools, knowledge and connections they need to thrive in a digital-first economy.”

Tracey West, Senior Social Impact Manager, Sellafield Ltd, adds: “The programme is designed for inclusive economic growth, with the ripple effect the benefits reach far wider than the winning businesses.

These businesses then go on to grow their businesses by investing locally, employing locally and spending locally, all which contribute positively to our local community.

"This is a great example of a supplier delivering on their social impact commitment that benefits the wider community, whilst aligning to the Sellafield social impact strategy and embracing the power of collaboration.”

Application categories

The competition is open to start-ups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs operating in West Cumbria within the tech world, with local innovators invited to submit proposals for an opportunity to receive investment and guidance.

This is a great example of a supplier delivering on their social impact commitment that benefits the wider community...