Fleetwood Market Launches New Business Incubator Programme Supporting Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Aspiring entrepreneurs in Wyre are being given the opportunity to develop real-world business skills through a unique training programme at Fleetwood Market.
The Market Business Incubator Project first took shape more than fifteen years ago, inspired by work with NABMA (The Voice of Markets), rising unemployment, declining high streets, and the belief that markets can be so much more than trading spaces — they can change lives. Now, thanks to support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), that long‑held vision has finally become a reality.
The programme offers hands-on experience in running, marketing, and managing a market stall. The initiative forms part of wider investment allocated to Wyre Council, which, alongside other projects, has helped establish the scheme.
Julian Brent, Market Manager comments,
“This was an idea I’ve carried for many years, and seeing it finally come to fruition is incredibly rewarding. With the support of UKSPF funding, we’ve been able to successfully establish and grow the scheme, something I’ve envisioned for many years creating real opportunities for people.
To now see it operating, supporting individuals into self-employment and bringing new life into Fleetwood Market, is something I’m genuinely proud of. The whole market team have helped to grow this idea and turn it into a reality and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
The programme is delivered in partnership with Wyre Council and offers recipients the opportunity to run their own business within Fleetwood Market. Participants receive support through an incubator‑style environment that includes reduced stall rates, access to experienced business mentors, and structured guidance designed to build skills and confidence.
This development initiative helps unemployed individuals gain the practical experience, knowledge, and self‑belief needed to become self‑employed market traders. Through hands‑on training in a live retail setting, participants work toward the opportunity to take over a fully stocked market unit at Fleetwood Market.
Among the latest cohort is Rebekah, who was selected from multiple applicants to run the new pet-themed stall, New Leash of Life, located in the main hall at Fleetwood Market.
Rebekah said:
“This opportunity has really given me the chance to build my experience and create a career for myself. I’m excited to see how the future looks for me now.”
Councillor Lynne Bowen, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Health and Community Engagement, added:
“Fleetwood Market has always been a vital part of our community, and this programme is a fantastic way to help local people turn their ideas into real businesses. By giving aspiring entrepreneurs, the support, space and confidence to grow, we’re investing not only in their future but in the future of our town centres. I’m delighted to see Rebekah take this opportunity, and I look forward to watching her business flourish.”
At the end of her probationary period Rebekah will have the opportunity to continue operating her stall on a permanent basis.
The project reflects Wyre Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting local people, strengthening business skills, and revitalising town centre markets as thriving community spaces.
