A fully-funded, after-hours support programme aimed specifically at helping local people start and grow a business is launching in Rhyl.

StartUp Club will give local people thinking of starting their own business or looking to turn their passion into a career, all the resources they need to set up and begin trading, including weekly expert-led workshops and support.

Starting in February at the Costigan’s Coworking space on Bodfor Street, the eight-week programme is held every Thursday from 18:00 – 20:00 in order to fit around work and childcare needs. Each session features a workshop where individuals will learn everything they need to transform an idea into an enterprise, from creating a business and marketing plan – through to identifying customers and building a brand.

The programme is being delivered by the operator of Costigan’s Coworking, Town Square Spaces Ltd (TownSq), and comes as part of a wider programme taking place in TownSq Hubs across the UK, including Wrexham, Bicester, Bognor Regis and Islington. During January and February, over 48 sessions will be delivered by a host of local experts.

The coworking space occupies the old Costigan’s building, previously semi-derelict, after a Rhyl regeneration scheme saw the site brought back into use. It’s now a vibrant enterprise hub supporting freelancers, startups, small businesses and social enterprises, championing a flexible working environment and strong community of like-minded members.

Community Manager at Costigan’s, Owain Colwell, said that, for some, the programme could be a great new beginning: “The beauty of Startup Club is the empowerment of ordinary people who might not think of themselves as entrepreneurs or particularly business-minded through knowledge and a strong support network.

“Many commonly preconceived notions about starting a business prevent people with a great idea from putting it into action, but we hope that the sessions with experts and success stories told will reassure the cohort that it is achievable to make a living from your passion and give them the information and support they need to hit the ground running.

“It’s understandably daunting to take a leap of faith into a new venture and unknown sphere, but, with a supportive community of advisors and peers, you don’t have to do it alone.

“We would love to hear from anyone in Rhyl or the wider area with an interest in starting a business, or even just a passion and the desire to take control of their career, to get in touch and see how our StartUp Club programme can help them.”

Startup Club in Rhyl will take place from 17th February at Costigan’s Coworking on Bodfor Street. To learn more or to apply, you can call, 01745 299987, email Owain@townsq.co.uk or visit costigansrhyl.co.uk/startup-club