Helping you take your new business to the next level

You’ve taken the big step of starting your business and the first 12 months are critical. How do you continue to develop your business in line with your vision?
DABS modules for new-start businesses are designed to combine expert guidance and practical hands-on approach to evolve your ambitious business model that will drive growth, make your business more robust and maximise opportunities through different topics and strategies.
Make sure you have the best support team. Register for DABS >
How DABS helps early stage businesses
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Fully-funded SME business growth programme
Helping you to build on your early successes and foster new opportunities for growth. -
COVID-19 response support
Helping you to adapt and innovate in the ever-changing marketplace. -
1-2-1 support and mentoring
Bespoke support with an experienced business advisor. -
Connect with like-minded new entrepreneurs
To aid collaboration and support across County Durham. -
Insights from sector experts and contacts
Providing focussed recommendations to help your business immediately. -
Guidance on new opportunities
To help you seize market advantage in your new start-up. -
Access to the online digital portal
To provide you with useful tools and resources to support your business. -
Entry to the ‘Festival of Enterprise’
Your chance to learn from key note speakers and other successful start-ups in the region.
DABS Early Stage Support
You’ve taken the big step of starting your business and the first 12 months are critical. How do you continue to develop your business in line with your vision?
Our DABS programme for new-start businesses offers ambitious business owners like you the support and know-how to make your business more robust and identify opportunities to grow.
DABS modules are designed to combine expert guidance and practical hands-on approach to evolve your business model that will drive growth and maximise through different topics and strategies. Our series of modules include:

Exploring New Opportunities & Design Thinking

Using Strategic Partnerships to drive growth

Customer Analytics for Growth

Digital Business Model Innovation

Innovative pricing strategies for Growth & Scale
Creating a resilient business structure
Testimonials
Joining the DABS early stage programme
Am I eligible?
To join the DABS early stage programme, you must:
- Have an early-stage SME based in County Durham which has been registered for less than 12 months.
- Have the drive, capability and desire to grow your business rapidly.
- Be willing to be challenged and explore opportunities to help you build the best business possible.
- Have a high level of business integrity.
Sound like you? Register your interest in the programme >
Not for you?
Yet to start your business? Check out the DABS programme for pre-start businesses.
Not the right time? Contact our team to discuss your options.
Looking for tools and tips to help your business? Explore our free business resources
.
Ready to grow your business?
Accelerate your business with support from DABS.