East Sussex Growth Hub Launches Free Programme to Help Local Businesses Strengthen Foundations and Grow Sustainably

Stay Smart, Grow Strong to support established sole traders, micro and small businesses across East Sussex with practical, expert-led workshops.

The East Sussex Growth Hub, in collaboration with Freedom Works, is proud to announce the launch of Stay Smart, Grow Strong - a fully funded business support programme designed to help local businesses build clarity, strengthen their foundations and take confident next steps towards sustainable growth.

Running from May to July, this series of in-person workshops is tailored for established sole traders, micro and small businesses based in East Sussex that are looking for practical support to move forward and grow with greater focus and direction. With half-day workshops covering Sales, Marketing, Finance & Growth, the programme offers hands-on, jargon-free sessions led by experienced professionals who work with businesses every day. Unlike traditional training, Stay Smart, Grow Strong is focused on real-world application - helping business owners step back from the day-to-day, sense-check what they’re doing, and leave with clear, actionable next steps.

Programme Highlights Participants can attend a series of half-day in-person workshops delivered across East Sussex, covering the key areas that matter most for running and growing a business: 

Smart Marketing - Get Your Business Seen, Known and Chosen Delivered by Alex Ryan (Marketing 101), this workshop helps businesses improve visibility, attract the right customers and focus on the marketing activity that actually works. 

Smart Sales - Turning Conversations into Customers Led by Gary Salters (GoSucceed), this session builds confidence in sales and introduces a simple, structured approach to turning conversations into real opportunities - without pushy tactics.

Smart Finance - Strengthen Your Financial Foundations Delivered by Chris Barnard (Collective Concepts Accounting), this workshop helps business owners understand their numbers, improve cashflow and pricing, and make more confident financial decisions.

Grow Strong - Build a Business That Can Grow Led by Steve Jebson (Business Doctors), this session supports business owners to step back, think strategically and build the systems and structure needed for sustainable growth. All workshops are interactive and practical, offering tools, frameworks and insights that participants can apply immediately in their business. Who Can Attend The programme is open to sole traders, micro and small businesses across East Sussex who are looking to: ● Gain clarity and direction ● Strengthen their business foundations ● Improve marketing, sales and financial confidence ● Plan their next steps towards growth How to Get Involved Workshops will take place across East Sussex between May and July.

Places are fully funded and free to attend, but spaces are limited. 

For more information and to register: [EVENTBRITE LINK]