At Jarrolds Business Club event this week, Jarrold Group, in partnership with Norfolk County Council, announced the launch of the 2025 Jarrold Growth Fund, a £100,000 initiative designed to support the expansion of Norfolk-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The fund comprises £50,000 in investments from Jarrold Group, up to 30 hours of free consultancy with Jarrold Group businesses and £50,000 in grants and funding from Norfolk County Council. It aims to assist SMEs in undertaking specific projects that drive business growth, such as purchasing machinery to enhance productivity or acquiring additional space to scale operations. The focus is on funding tangible projects and initiatives that directly contribute to business expansion.

Cllr Fabian Eagle, cabinet member for Economic Growth at Norfolk County Council, commented:

“Norfolk County Council is delighted to be working in partnership with Jarrold Group on this exciting initiative to help grow Norfolk businesses. Jarrold Group is a hugely respected local business and like the county council is committed to nurturing a vibrant local economy. Small businesses are the lifeblood of the local economy, and the Growth Fund will provide vital funding and expertise.”

Tom Burdett, Group Director of Finance and Strategic Operations at Jarrold Group, commented:
“We are deeply committed to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within Norfolk. The success of last year’s fund demonstrated the remarkable potential of our local businesses. This year, with the continued support of Norfolk County Council, we are eager to back innovative projects that will significantly impact the growth of SMEs in our region.”

In its inaugural year, the Jarrold Growth Fund received more than 70 applications from Norfolk businesses across various sectors. The scheme provided funds, advice and mentorship to 4 recipients, along with access to specialist expertise from Jarrold Group businesses. This comprehensive support has enabled local enterprises to overcome strategic challenges and achieve substantial growth.

Nick Steven-Jones, CEO at Jarrold Group, said:

“We’re immensely proud to support the incredible innovation and creativity that drives growth in Norfolk. By leveraging our expertise across the Jarrold Group and partnering with Norfolk County Council, we’re excited to help local businesses thrive and contribute to the prosperity of our vibrant region”

Applications for the 2025 Jarrold Growth Fund are open now and will be accepted until 31 March 2025. Interested businesses can apply by completing the application form available here.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews in April, with funds to be released shortly thereafter.

FAQ

Who can apply?
Any Norfolk-based SME.

What are the selection criteria?
To get to a shortlist we will review all applications paying particular attention to the opportunity for the business to grow, and the role that additional funding and support from Jarrolds could play in this.

Who makes the decision?
Jarrolds CEO – Nick Steven-Jones, and Jarrolds Group Director of Finance & Strategic Operations – Tom Burdett.

What kind of advice/guidance is included?
This will be determined by the needs of the business but could include:

• Support from one of our associates who is skilled in providing guidance to early-stage businesses to work through any strategic challenges and make sure their business plan is in great shape.
• Thereafter, access to Jarrolds’ senior leadership team who have expertise in a variety of disciplines, who will be on hand to provide mentoring.