An independent evaluation has highlighted the significant impact and strategic importance of the Get Enterprising programme, which supports local entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses to start, grow, and thrive.

Commissioned by Hertfordshire Futures and delivered by Wenta, Get Enterprising provides tailored advice, practical workshops, and one-to-one support to aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses across Hertfordshire. The independent evaluation, conducted by Deyton Bell, found that the programme continues to meet a clear and growing need for enterprise support, especially as businesses navigate economic uncertainty, rising costs, and accelerating technological change.

Significant impact across Hertfordshire

Since 2022, Get Enterprising has:

• Provided 796 businesses with intensive support
• Helped 717 aspiring entrepreneurs become business ready
• Supported the creation of 490 new businesses
• Supported the creation of 636 jobs
• Maintained consistently high levels of customer satisfaction

The evaluation found that businesses particularly value the programme's personalised adviser support, practical guidance, and flexibility – helping them develop confidence, strengthen business plans, improve marketing, and build resilience.

Supporting businesses for the future

The evaluation highlights how Get Enterprising has evolved to meet changing business needs. Alongside traditional start-up support, a growing number of businesses are now seeking advice on digital marketing, technology adoption, and AI, with the programme adapting to this demand.

It also identifies an ongoing need for dedicated enterprise support. Many businesses now need more intensive support to build sustainable operating models before they can pursue growth.

Looking ahead

The evaluation recommends that Hertfordshire continues to invest in a dedicated county-wide enterprise support programme, building on the strengths of Get Enterprising while strengthening links across the wider business support ecosystem.

The findings reinforce the important role enterprise support plays in delivering Hertfordshire’s economic ambitions – by helping residents turn ideas into successful businesses, creating jobs, and supporting long-term economic resilience.

Read the full evaluation report to find out more.