An introduction to Launchpad
Launchpad is a free, start‑up business support programme available to residents across Rotherham and the wider Sheffield City Region. Delivered in Rotherham by RiDO on behalf of Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, the programme plays a key role in driving the local economy by supporting new businesses and encouraging self‑employment.
The programme is supported and part‑funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and the UK Government’s Local Growth Fund. This investment enables Launchpad to offer high‑quality, free‑to‑access start‑up support to residents in Rotherham
Launchpad offers personalised one‑to‑one support from experienced business advisors, working closely with individuals to develop ideas, refine business models and to provide tailored guidance at every stage of the start‑up journey.
Alongside one-to-one support, the programme provides interactive and insightful monthly workshops on topics such as marketing, sales, artificial intelligence, and website development. These sessions are delivered by topic experts, helping new businesses build essential skills to grow their business with confidence.
Now celebrating 10 years of delivery, Launchpad has proven to be a highly successful programme that continues to make a lasting impact In Rotherham and across all of South Yorkshire.
The growth of the programme
Since Launchpad began in 2017, more than 3,000 Rotherham residents and businesses have received support to develop their skills and business ideas.
Demand for the programme has continued to grow year on year, with 2025-26 marking the busiest year to date. In Rotherham, more than 500 aspiring entrepreneurs and early‑stage businesses accessed support from Launchpad advisors during this period.
This growth has been matched by an expansion in activity, with an increasing number of workshops, masterclasses and engagement opportunities delivered throughout the year. The programme continues to evolve in response to demand, ensuring support remains accessible, relevant and impactful for local residents businesses.
A year of celebration
To mark its 10th year of operation, Launchpad is expanding and enhancing the support available to local start‑ups. Throughout the year, the programme will deliver an increased programme of expert masterclasses, workshops and one‑to‑one support, designed to meet the evolving needs of new and growing businesses.
As part of the celebrations, Launchpad aims to deliver up to 10 workshops per quarter, covering a broader and more diverse range of topics than ever before. These sessions will explore both core business fundamentals and emerging areas, helping founders build resilient, sustainable businesses.
A series of new expert workshops and masterclasses are now live on our events page, with additional sessions scheduled to be added each month. For more information on the upcoming sessions and to book your place, visit here.
The anniversary year will also shine a spotlight on success, with new client case studies published throughout the year, alongside opportunities for businesses to connect through networking events hosted within our RiDO Business Hubs.
Supporting sustainable growth and celebrating success
Since its inception, Launchpad has supported a diverse range of businesses across Rotherham. Many have gone on to achieve significant growth and long‑term success, after first working with Launchpad’s start‑up advisors at the very beginning of their business journey.
Dean Charlton, Hooton Walled's Nursery
Dean Charlton launched Hooton’s Walled Nursery in Rotherham in March 2024, based on a stunning four‑acre site on Doncaster Road within the historic Wentworth Estate.
The nursery has quickly become a favourite among gardeners and, in 2025, featured on BBC Gardeners’ World and at the RHS Flower Show, marking a significant milestone for the new business.
Launchpad supported Dean as he prepared to open his nursery, providing in‑depth guidance through one‑to‑one meetings and workshops, with a particular focus on marketing.
“The team at Launchpad have been a great support. Their workshops which they run by day and in evenings, allowed me to be able to attend around our opening hours. The sessions on marketing, branding and photography have been invaluable to us”
Dean Charlton, Hooton Walled’s Nursery
Dean Pattison, Utility Source Limited
Founded in 2018 by Dean Pattison, Utility Source Limited is another successful business supported by Launchpad in Rotherham. What began as a start‑up has grown into a leading specialist consultancy, helping investors and developers connect new developments to mains utilities infrastructure.
Dean worked closely with Launchpad advisors and attended workshops covering business planning, HR and other key areas that helped shape his business vision into reality.
In 2025, Utility Source Limited was recognised at the Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber Awards, winning the Business Growth Award and receiving Highly Commended in the Campaign of the Year category.
Feedback from existing Launchpad supported businesses
“Launchpad’s guidance has been a constant thread through every stage of my business journey. They’ve helped me grow, adapt and keep creating, even in the most challenging times.”
Malcolm J Hogan, Granny Norbag
“I would recommend anyone to 100% get in touch and engage with the programme. The team have a wealth of knowledge and it’s a free service. Launchpad were really fantastic.”
Patrick O’Connor, SYIL CNC UK
“The free courses were incredibly useful for plugging gaps in my knowledge. The business is better than I could have ever hoped for and a lot of that is down to the support received from Launchpad.”
Amy Williams, Total Foot Repair
Contact our Launchpad start-up business support team
If you have a business idea or want to grow your small business, explore RiDO’s free Launchpad programme to access expert guidance and support and become part of the next chapter of Launchpad’s success.
Click here to find out more and complete the contact form.
Alternatively, you can contact the Launchpad team via:
Telephone: 01709 331111
Email: info@rotherham.gov.uk
