ANTUR CYMRU aims to strengthen its presence in South Wales, building on a strong track record of supporting entrepreneurs, start-ups and established businesses.
The prominent social enterprise, based in Newcastle Emlyn, has already delivered vital guidance to hundreds of firms in Ceredigion, Powys and West Wales, helping local enterprises to grow, innovate and adapt.
Building on this success, the organisation has launched a new Business Support Hub in Brecon, ensuring support is delivered across the whole of Powys.
The Hub, located on The Struet, will provide free training, tailored coaching and access to resources. Services will include support for businesses to digitise, marketing, social media and branding guidance, access to finance, and valuable networking opportunities.
Surrounding communities – including Hay-on-Wye, Llandrindod Wells and Ystradgynlais – will also benefit from outreach surgeries.
Funded by the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by Antur Cymru in partnership with Powys County Council, the Hub represents a new chapter of support for businesses in the region.
Bronwen Raine, Managing Director of Antur Cymru, said: “What makes our approach so effective is that we are visible and accessible. We’re here in person, offering tailored, free advice that can make a real difference at grassroots level.
“Our focus is on equipping individuals and firms with the right tools to thrive – and the impact is far greater than economic growth alone.
“Long-term, it’s about transforming communities and creating opportunities that last for future generations. This includes helping businesses harness the productivity benefits of AI and technology adoption.”
The Brecon Hub will run workshops, networking events and one-to-one sessions designed to address specific business needs, from finance and digital systems to customer service, recruitment and sustainability.
Support will also cover areas such as grant applications, pricing for profit, trading standards, Welsh language use, and reducing carbon and waste.
Powys County Councillor Matthew Dorrance said: “I’m delighted to see this new Business Support Hub open in the centre of Brecon. I know it will provide much-needed support, help and guidance to businesses in south Powys.
“The opening marks the culmination of months of behind-the-scenes negotiations between myself, David Meredith, Liz Rijnenberg, Chris Walsh and Powys County Council to bring this support into town.
“This hub provides an excellent business resource which will support everyone in the sector, from micro businesses upwards. If you’re a business in south Powys, please reach out – there is brilliant support available.”
Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe MP David Chadwick, who officially opened the Hub, added: “If you have an idea to reinvigorate our rural economy and want to start your own business, do it here on the high street.
“It’s a beautiful high street filled with glorious Georgian buildings. There’s a wonderful team to support you, and they will be here Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Well done to the team and everyone who made this happen.”
Looking ahead, Bronwen said they are delighted to be able to extend their offering.
“Having proven the value of our support across mid and west Wales, we believe there are opportunities to roll out this successful model into more communities across Wales,” she said.
“Every market town, coastal region and valley across Wales could benefit from a doorstep advice service that gives both existing businesses and would-be entrepreneurs the time and expert advice they need.”
