Mitie Business Boost 4.0 launches with opportunity to win up to £50,000

Entrepreneurs, start-ups and businesses across West Cumbria are being encouraged to apply for the fourth year of the Mitie Business Boost programme, which has officially launched with applications now open.

Focused on helping local people and businesses to Innovate. Grow. Impact., Business Boost 4.0 offers a free programme of expert mentoring, practical workshops, one-to-one support and networking opportunities, alongside the chance to win up to £50,000 to help turn business ideas into reality. The programme is open to aspiring entrepreneurs, start-ups, sole traders, SMEs, social enterprises and established businesses looking to grow.

This year's programme also welcomes new Boost partners Cavendish Nuclear and Decommissioning Nuclear Waste Partnership (DNWP), joining previous partners Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) and OneAIM JV, alongside Sellafield SiX, bringing additional expertise, insight and support for participants.

To celebrate the launch, Mitie is inviting local businesses, entrepreneurs and anyone with a business idea to attend a Drop-in & Discover Event at Haig Pit Bakehouse, Whitehaven, on Thursday 1 October from 4.30pm to 7.00pm.

The event will give attendees the opportunity to meet the Boost team, hear from previous winners and finalists, enjoy refreshments and find out more about what Business Boost 4.0 could offer them.

Recent Business Boost success stories include JointEffort.io, and Fellpath Planning, who were named winners in 2026, while previous winner Gina Goulding has gone on to grow her business and expand with venues including Beach Road Bakehouse and Haig Pit Bakehouse

Clare Rush, Account Director, Mitie Cumbria Consortium, said:

"We're delighted to launch Business Boost 4.0 and continue supporting entrepreneurs and businesses across West Cumbria. Every year we see fantastic ideas, ambition and determination from people who want to take the next step in their business journey."

"Business Boost is about providing practical support, building confidence and creating opportunities for growth. We're proud to work alongside our partners to help local businesses thrive, and we look forward to welcoming both new and returning participants to this year's programme."

Drop-in & Discover Event

📅 Thursday 1 October 2026
⏰ 4.30pm - 7.00pm
📍 Haig Pit Bakehouse, Solway Road, Whitehaven, Cumbria CA28 9BG

Ready to apply? Applications for Business Boost 4.0 are now open and close on 18 October 2026.

Find out more and apply:
https://discover.mitie.com/mitie-business-boost-2026