Ealing Council is inviting local entrepreneurs to sign up to Start Up School, an eight-week online course aimed at Ealing residents who want to start or develop a small business.
The next course is due to begin next Wednesday (22 January 2026). The council says almost 600 people in the borough have taken part since 2021. The scheme is funded through a grant from the Greater London Authority and delivered by the council’s adult learning team, Learn Ealing.
One recent participant, Rachael Sanya, who runs a podcast production and strategy service, said she signed up despite having been in business for several years. She said: “I didn’t have a clear plan or strategy.”
Ms Sanya said she had to change her target market after previous clients, including academics and faith leaders, reduced spending on podcast projects. She said the course helped her revise her marketing and finances and produce a one-page business plan.
Group calls were a key part of the format, according to Sanya, who described the sessions as “collaborative” and said participants shared advice.
Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes, said the programme was designed to give people “tailored help” to start or grow a business.
Residents can apply through the Start Up School website.
