Stevenage Borough Council has awarded a new long-term contract to not-for-profit, social enterprise, Wenta, to manage The Business and Technology Centre (btc) and Chells Industrial Units (CIU), securing the future of two important business hubs that support local jobs, enterprise, innovation and economic growth within the town.

The 16-year strong partnership represents a significant long-term investment in Stevenage's business community, ensuring expert management of the centres while protecting valuable council assets and creating new opportunities for businesses to start, grow and thrive.

Wenta, now one of the largest enterprise agencies in England, whose mission is to make it easier and greener for everyone to start and run a business, provides a comprehensive range of easy-accessible business support services. This includes free of charge independent business advice, skills training programmes, live webinars as well as resources and templates, along with affordable and flexible workspace on monthly terms.

Designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey, these vital services help aspiring business owners, start-ups and established small business owners develop the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to start, grow and succeed. With a strong track record of supporting entrepreneurs and growing businesses, Wenta has supported 2,153 local Stevenage residents with their business since working in partnership with Stevenage Borough Council, helping to create more than 463 local jobs and launch 343 Stevenage-based businesses between 2019 and 2026. Nationally, Wenta has supported over 110,000 business enterprises.

Companies such as XO3D and Majesty Grading Company are shining examples of just a couple of local businesses which have been supported by Wenta and The Business and Technology Centre. The new contract will build on the btc’s long-standing role as a catalyst for business growth in Stevenage, supporting companies across every sector including advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital technology, engineering and creative industries.

Through providing flexible high-quality accommodation, meeting and conference facilities, access to expert business advice, ongoing specialist business support, business connections and coaching, the btc has helped businesses to grow, adapt and flourish, becoming successful examples of the entrepreneurial talent being developed in Stevenage.

Councillor Coleen De Freitas, Co-Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy, Skills & Young People, said:

"This is a fantastic outcome for Stevenage. Wenta has a strong track record of supporting businesses and creating opportunities, and this contract will help ensure The Business Technology Centre and Chells Industrial Units continue to drive jobs, growth and investment for years to come."

Jennifer Condon, Director of Client Services and Engagement, at Wenta, said:

"Supporting businesses is at the heart of everything we do. Through flexible workspace, expert advice and practical training, we thrive on helping people turn their ideas into a reality by giving them the practical support they need to start, sustain or grow their business, creating more local jobs and contributing to the local economy.

“We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with Stevenage Borough Council and building on the success of The Business and Technology Centre and Chells Industrial Units."

The partnership reinforces Stevenage Borough Council's commitment to supporting local enterprise, creating opportunities for residents and ensuring the town remains an attractive destination for businesses of all sizes.

Are you looking for somewhere to launch your new idea, scale an existing company or explore opportunities to establish your organisation in one of the UK’s leading areas to do business?

Get in touch to find out more on the btc and Wenta, and how they can help you turn your business idea into reality or support your next stage of growth.

Visit: www.wenta.co.uk | www.btcstevenage.co.uk
Call: 01438 310000