Fancy trying your hand at running your very own market stall – absolutely free for one day?

North Yorkshire Council are offering you the chance to try your hand at running your own market stall. First-time traders can run a stall absolutely free for one day, from now until the end of September. Take your pick from one of the vibrant markets in Thirsk, Northallerton, Ripon, Knaresborough, Pickering, Helmsley, and Whitby.

Why get involved?

  • Free one day pitch – perfect opportunity for newcomers to experience market trading without any cost
  • Variety of locations – take your pick from one of the vibrant market towns in Thirsk, Northallerton, Ripon, Knaresborough, Pickering, Helmsley, and Whitby
  • Supportive community – connect with fellow traders and market enthusiasts
  • Boost your business – gain exposure and build your customer base

You’ll be able to take up this opportunity at one of the markets listed above until 30 September 2025.

This offer is also open to existing market traders who would like to try trading at another location.

Applications must be submitted at least one week before your chosen date to allow time for arrangements. To ensure a smooth and successful experience, applications must provide: proof of right to work in the UK, public Liability Insurance, photo ID and food hygiene certificates if applicable. The site is self-set, which means you would need to bring your own gazebo, frame or tables.

Strive Live Start-Up Incubator: October 2025 (BSL Interpreted)

Following ongoing high demand and supporting hundreds of entrepreneurs, the Growth Hub is planning to once again partner up with Enterprise Cube to deliver a cohort of the Strive Live Start-Up Incubator, scheduled for October 2025. Find out more about more about the programme below, and register your interest to secure the first places when dates are confirmed.

Advice and Support for North Yorkshire Businesses

North Yorkshire Council offer support to businesses across the region. We understand that there may be particular pressures as a result of the Moorland Wildfire. If you need to talk to a business advisor, please email business.nyc@northyorks.gov.uk and one of our colleagues will be in touch. If you’re in the Visitor Economy, Visit North Yorkshire offers specialist support, get in touch by contacting the team.

Steps into Digital: Data Analytics for Smarter Decisions Workshop Series

This nine part workshop series is designed to help businesses at every stage of their data journey from those just starting out to those ready to explore artificial intelligence and compliance. Each session is practical, jargon free and grounded in real business use cases, ensuring participants leave with tools and knowledge they can apply immediately.

Scams warning as Self Assessment customers targeted

Scammers often impersonate HMRC, offering fake refunds or demanding urgent payments to steal personal and banking information. They may say it’s safe to share personal details. It’s not. Passwords, usernames, and access codes are private and customers should never share them, even with someone they trust or who helps them with their tax.

York and North Yorkshire farms urged to apply for sustainability funding

Farms and businesses that have had an energy audit can now apply for funding up to £49,950 to help decarbonise their businesses. York and North Yorkshire’s Business Sustainability Programme will help farms and businesses implement changes that have been recommended by the local authority or Grow Yorkshire decarbonisation support programme or one which has been done by a suitable private sector organisation.