Strive Live Start-Up Incubator: Expression of Interest for Autumn 2026
Interested in joining a future cohort of Stive Live Start-Up Incubator? Find out more about the programme below, and register your interest to secure the first places when dates are confirmed. The next programme is starting in Autumn 2026, and is funded by Quickline and delivered in partnership with Enterprise CUBE.
If you are currently running or looking to launch a start-up based in York & North Yorkshire, join this award-winning incubator designed to help grassroots entrepreneurs launch their business. Strive Live blends weekly live online training with regular one-to-one advice and on-demand online learning to make it simple and exciting to start a business. Plus, you could win up to £2,500 in micro grants at the end of the programme.
Ready to Launch Your Start-up in York & North Yorkshire?
Following a string of success stories, we are now opening the doors for a new cohort of ambitious start-up businesses to turn entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
Whether you’re already running a start-up or just about to take the plunge, our programme is tailor-made to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.
Download the project guide here
Award-Winning Start-Up Support
Strive Live Start-Up Incubator is an acclaimed programme designed exclusively for grassroots entrepreneurs like you. Our goal is simple: to help you launch and grow your business with unparalleled support and guidance. Benefit from a blend of dynamic weekly live online training, personalised one-to-one advice, and on-demand online learning, all aimed at making your start-up journey enjoyable and effective.
Secure your spot today to join our thriving community of aspiring entrepreneurs and kickstart your entrepreneurial journey with confidence.
Read what previous attendees had to say:
“I found the whole Strive experience positive. The explanation from both Paul & Richard was given in a relaxed way. Both made me feel included. A really unique opportunity. Nothing was a silly question. The one to ones were brilliant. The peer group was brilliant made more so by the WhatsApp community group . Hope that we all stay in touch. Look forward to seeing everyone succeed!”
“Each session left my brain tingling with new ideas. Even though I’ve been through setting up a business before, there was so much value in each session.”
Want a taster?
Enterprise Cube recently worked with the Growth Hub to deliver a pair of popular webinars covering how to write a Business Plan and Cashflow Forecast, as well as a webinar entitled ‘Making the leap: are you ready to start a business?’.
This support will only be available to businesses located in North Yorkshire Council and City of York Council areas.
Register your interest
Yorkshire manufacturer pioneers AI adoption as first in North Yorkshire to secure Made Smarter grant funding
Tadweld, a North-Yorkshire based steelwork manufacturer Tadcaster-based engineering and has become the first in its region to commence an artificial intelligence project through Made Smarter Yorkshire & Humber’s Intensive Technical Support programme.
York Business Festival
York St John University is proud to announce a packed programme for York Business Festival this October. Taking place across two days, attendees gain direct access to the expertise of academics and researchers from York Business School and the wider University as well as a host of invited speakers and facilitators.
Brew York invests in a more sustainable future
When rising CO2 prices began putting pressure on Brew York, the team started looking for a more sustainable way to operate and reduce their reliance on external CO2 supplies. With support from City of York Council and the Growth Hub, Brew York secured grant funding towards new nitrogen generation technology, through the Business Sustainability Programme.
Apprenticeship funding scheme opens new opportunities for employers in York and North Yorkshire
Employers across York and North Yorkshire are invited to take advantage of a new Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Scheme launched by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, creating new opportunities to invest in skills and support long-term business growth.
Innovation Supper: Meet the Dragons
Emerging entrepreneurs from across York and North Yorkshire will be pitching their business ideas to an engaged audience of like-minded business professionals at next month’s Innovation Supper. A panel of experienced business professionals are set to provide a wealth of business knowledge and insight, asking questions and offering invaluable feedback to those taking the stage.
Fully funded workplace training and development for North Yorkshire employers
Employers across North Yorkshire can now access free learning and development opportunities designed to help create more inclusive, supportive and productive workplaces. Available through the Get Britain Working Economic Inactivity Trailblazer, the programme from North Yorkshire Council gives employers practical support to develop workplace cultures where employees feel valued, supported and able to thrive in work.
Second registration window now open for tax advisers
Registration is now open for tax advisers in the second phase of the new Modernising and Mandating Tax Adviser Registration (MMTAR) rollout. This applies to any advisers with Self Assessment or Corporation Tax accounts, but without an agent services account (ASA). They have until 18 November 2026 to register.
Sausage maker uses technology to cut energy costs and power future growth
HECK, based in Bedale, produces premium sausages, burgers, mince and meatballs. The family-firm installed a digital Energy Management System (EMS) with support from Made Smarter Yorkshire after soaring electricity prices almost tripled its energy bills.
North Yorkshire brewery taps into technology to fuel growth
Founded in 2013 as a small-batch microbrewery, Harrogate Brewing Company was acquired by Joe and Julie Joyce in 2020 with ambitions to build a larger, more resilient business that could create a long-term future for their family. Just weeks later, the Covid-19 pandemic brought the hospitality industry to a standstill. With its pub customers disappearing almost overnight, the family adapted by launching online sales, home deliveries and a taproom.
New employers: what you need to know about the National Minimum Wage
Taking on your first workers is a milestone moment for any new business. It’s important to pay your workers correctly from day one, as this helps build trust, demonstrates your commitment to treating workers fairly, and lays the foundations for a positive and productive working relationship.
Boost your career with adult learning
A wide range of subjects are available through the Adult Skills Fund, Free Courses for Jobs and Skills Bootcamps, all delivered by expert providers commissioned by the Combined Authority.
Innovation Supper October 2026: Apply to pitch
Join us for a relaxed evening with a light supper and plenty of inspiration, where you’ll have the chance to step into the spotlight and pitch your business idea to win seed funding. Prior to the pitching, you’ll be provided expert pitch training delivered by York St John, so you’re fully prepared to deliver your pitch with confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or already up and running, you’re invited to get involved.