Businesses in North Devon are being invited to a free event next month to find out about exciting free business support, training and grants available, as well as hearing about the council's financial plans for the year ahead.

The business support and budget plans event will take place at NODE Cowork in Barnstaple between 5.30-8pm on Tuesday 21 February. There will be information on a number of business support programmes, training and grants available on the night, with local agencies, such as North Devon Plus, Petroc, Barnstaple and District Chamber of Commerce and Barnstaple Town Centre Management on hand to discuss individual businesses' needs and how they may help. Those attending will also receive an update on the council’s 2023/24 budget and be able to find out just how their business rates are spent.

Attendees to the event are also encouraged to use the opportunity to have a look around Node; a space for collaborative working, which enables users to start and grow their business by sharing knowledge, experiences and learning from others.

Director of Resources Jon Triggs says: “This is a brilliant opportunity for local businesses to tap into support opportunities available to them locally at an exciting venue which is dedicated to giving businesses the chance to connect with others and grow.

"We are also keen to share our financial plans for the coming year and listen to the views of our local businesses too. We look forward to engaging with as many local business owners as possible at this free event.”

Attendees do not need to book their place. This is a free event for all businesses, but especially those with a rated business premise.