Get Ready for Business Growth | Mentoring programme
Applications are open for this British Library programme, offering six months of free one-to-one support to help established businesses scale up and grow.
Free mentoring programme to help businesses scale up
Applications are now open for the British Library's Get Ready for Business Growth mentoring programme, offering six months of free one-to-one mentoring to help businesses grow.
To be eligible, businesses must:
- be based in the UK
- be registered as a sole trader or on Companies House for at least six months
- have a live website
- have made at least £10,000 in revenue (eg from trading at local markets or trade shows).
How to apply
The selection programme involves three stages. First, you must submit your application online by 2 February 2026. A panel will shortlist candidates in early February.
If you’re shortlisted, you will be invited to attend the mandatory Mentee Introductory Workshop (likely to be held on 23 March 2026) to learn more and confirm your fit with the mentors available. Exact date and details of the workshop will be confirmed to you closer to the time.
If you are successfully matched with a mentor, you will be able to start the programme and access six one-hour sessions with an experienced mentor over six months, with the British Library team support throughout.
Mentees will be offered practical advice, encouragement and support from experienced entrepreneurs, giving them a chance to build confidence, set goals and grow their network.
Find out more about the Get ready for business growth - British Library programme.
First published 7 January 2026