NATWEST is launching a fully-funded digital programme to help 100 Dorset entrepreneurs launch their own businesses.

The Pre-Accelerator Programme is being supported in partnership with Bournemouth and Poole College, Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council, Dorset Council, and Dorset Gateway, and is open to entrepreneurs with an early-stage idea or those that have just started their own business.

Part of NatWest’s successful Entrepreneur Accelerator programme, the Pre-Accelerator is an eight-week digital programme supported by a series of face-to-face events.

Fully funded by the bank, participants do not need to bank with NatWest to take part.

During the programme, which begins on June 11 with an Ignition launch event at Bournemouth and Poole College, entrepreneurs will have access to four digital modules that will help them identify customers, gather customer insights, construct a value proposition statement and learn important skills to help them launch their business with.

Local entrepreneur Samantha Acton will also host a workshop at the college as part of the programme where she will share her insights into launching and running a successful business.

Mairead Taylor, NatWest’s Director of Corporate and Commercial Banking in Dorset, said: “We’re delighted to be launching our hugely successful Pre-Accelerator Programme in Dorset.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local entrepreneurs who have a great business idea that they want to bring to life or those that have just started a business.”

There are just 100 places available on the Dorset programme and these are expected to be taken quickly.

To apply visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/natwest-pre-accelerator-dorset-tickets-58096613535#tickets.