SENTA is working with the National Federation of Enterprise Agencies (NFEA) to deliver the New Entrepreneur Scholarships (NES) Programme, which aims to boost the number of new entrepreneurs across Yorkshire and Humber.

The NES programme aims to help disadvantaged groups living in specific deprived wards to develop their business skills and turn their business idea into a reality.

The scheme means SENTA will continue to extend its helping hand to start-ups beyond the Sheffield city region by developing and supporting new businesses from four key areas - South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire and North Yorkshire.

This year 116 budding entrepreneurs graduated from the scheme in this region with SENTA’s help.

SENTA head of enterprise Mandip Dosanjh said: “Business in Yorkshire is thriving and entrepreneurship, even amongst under-represented business groups, is clearly on the rise.

“We’re thrilled to be delivering this important national programme in Yorkshire and Humber for another year, showcasing SENTA’s expertise to an ever increasing reach of people.”

The NES programme, which is funded by the LSC, aims to break down potential barriers with a comprehensive package of support, mentoring and funding in order to nurture the start-up and growth of new businesses. It is delivered by NFEA through its members in partnership with The Association of Business Schools and The Prince’s Trust.

Since 2001, 3,500 scholars have graduated though the NES programme nationally, including 300 in Yorkshire and Humber. Of these more than two thirds have gone on to set up their own business.

SENTA is part of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and provides fully integrated support to new business start-ups and businesses up to two years old.