West Kent Business Support Programme

Join the Free West Kent business support programme for all West Kent based businesses and entrepreneurs. With access to free mentoring, networking opportunities as well as its flagship event, the West Kent Expo.

This programme is funded through Invest West Kent and delivered by GLL. It is designed to help businesses connect, develop and grow.

Invest West Kent is a partnership between Sevenoaks District Council, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

Following the success of the programme and the conclusion of UKSPF funding (2024-2026), the three local authorities have committed their own funding to ensure business support continues to be available across West Kent until July 2027.

What's Included

• Mentoring: one-to-one sessions with experienced business advisors
• Networking: connect with other local businesses, share knowledge and meet other business support providers
• West Kent Expo 2027: showcase your business on a regional stage or visit on the day to make new and reconnect with contacts/partners/suppliers

Who's it for?

The scheme is open to small and medium-sized businesses, entrepreneurs, and startups based in the West Kent area.

Why join?

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this programme offers the tools and connections to help your business succeed.

Who's behind this programme?

Invest West Kent provides the funding, strategic leadership and oversight for the programme.

GLL is the appointed delivery partner and manages mentoring, networking events, the West Kent Expo, communications and programme administration.

Grant Writing for Beginners Webinar

Learn the essentials of grant application writing, avoid common mistakes, and gain skills to craft competitive funding responses.

Wednesday 8th October 2025, 10.00am-12.00pm
Gary Parker
Online Webinar

Promotional banner: grant writing for begineers live workshop — Online Webinar.

Start using the potential of AI to work for your business

Not sure where to start when it comes to Generative AI for your business? This hands-on workshop will get you using AI for your needs.

Tuesday 4th November 2025, 10.30am-12.30pm
Thomas Akintan & Kevin Loi-Heng
Tonbridge Castle, Castle Street, Tonbridge TN9 1BG

Promotional banner: AI essentials: Start using the potential of AI to work for your business

Creating a Strategic Roadmap for Your Business

Discover how to set the path for growth with a strategy that matches your vision, adapts to change, and drives your business forward.

Thursday 13th November 2025, 10:30am-12:30pm
Lee Lam
The Stag Sevenoaks, London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 1ZZ

Promotional banner: create a strategic roadmap for your business with Lee Lam — Sevenoaks.

How to win government contracts as a small business

Practical guidance for small businesses to navigate procurement, avoid common mistakes, and write more successful bids.

Wednesday 19th November 2025, 10.30am - 12.30pm
Gary Parker
OfficeTribe, 8A London Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1DA

Promotional banner: win government contracts with Gary Parker— Tunbridge Wells.

West Kent Expo'27

A free, one-day showcase of 60+ local businesses with practical workshops and expert business support. Discover suppliers, network with other businesses and pick up actionable tips to grow your business.

Save the date – Wednesday 10^th March 2027

Invest West Kent Business Support Programme | Free Support for West Kent Businesses

About the business support programme