Evolve launches new Ignite programme to support Dorset’s next generation of entrepreneurs

We’re excited to be launching a new intensive start-up programme designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful businesses.
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Rachel Hadfield
March 31, 2026

The Ignite programme offers a one-day practical workshop aimed at individuals who are looking for the most effective way to start their own business.

The first session will take place on Friday 15 May at Evolve in Poole and is limited to 16 participants.

At the heart of the Ignite programme is the understanding that the most effective way to support new businesses is through a combination of expert guidance and building knowledge, alongside the importance of building local connections and support.

David Mutton, Business Advisor at Evolve and facilitator of the programme, said:

“We know that starting a business can feel daunting, especially if you’re doing it on your own. Ignite is about giving people the right support at the right time – helping them learn how to validate their idea, understand what’s really involved in launching a business and develop a plan to take those next steps.

“What makes this programme different is the balance between practical learning and making connections. The network you develop in those early stages of founding a business can be just as important as the business plan itself. We’re bringing people together so they leave not just with knowledge, but importantly with a support system around them.”

The one-day programme, costing £99, covers all the essential elements of starting a business, including business planning, sales, marketing, branding, finance, legal considerations and the entrepreneurial mindset. Participants will also receive practical workbooks and templates to help support them beyond the workshop.

Ignite is open to anyone considering starting a business, from those with a new idea to early-stage founders looking for structure, direction and support. No prior experience is required.

Evolve brings extensive experience in helping people start and grow businesses, supporting founders not just at the idea stage, but throughout the critical early weeks, months and years of their business journey. Evolve has built a strong reputation for delivering structured, practical support that enables early-stage business owners to launch and grow their business confidently.

To find out more click here.

Authored by:

Rachel Hadfield

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Mark Brooks
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Economic Development Officer at BCP Council
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Evolve offers a fantastic peer group which adds huge value to myself and my business!

Martin Smith

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Partnering with Evolve for the Ignite Start-Up programme has been brilliant for our local entrepreneurship support efforts. The comprehensive training and personalised mentoring provided to participants have led to the successful launch of numerous new businesses. The value of this programme is clear, and we are thrilled with the results. A big thank you to the Evolve team for their expertise and commitment!

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Joining the Evolve Peer Group helped me at a time when I was standing on the edge of a decision that genuinely terrified me. I was stepping away from familiarity, certainty, and comfort, and into something completely unknown. Having the Peer Group around me during that period made a huge difference. Being part of a room of people who truly understand the pressures of leadership and entrepreneurship gave me space to think clearly, challenge myself, and trust my own judgement when doubt was loud. While my journey is only just beginning, the encouragement, perspective, and accountability of the Peer Group have been, and continue to be, instrumental in shaping both my confidence and my direction as a founder. I’m incredibly grateful for the support and kindness I’ve experienced through Evolve and would recommend the Peer Group to anyone seeking clarity, connection, and genuine support while building and leading a business.

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The Evolve peer group sessions are a great place to get away from the day to day, refocus and ultimately bounce ideas off other business people. The structure of the session permits open conversation with your peers and always provides useful insights that you would not be able to get anywhere else. The specific work books challenge you and really get you thinking on what is important in your business.

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Russell New

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The Evolve Business Accelerator is a fantastic programme for founders in the early stages of developing a business idea. The programme was instrumental in helping me develop HR Diagnostics to MVP stage and I would have struggled to get where I am without this help and support. The mentors have a pragmatic and approachable style, and they are good at connecting people through their extensive network. Thank you to the Evolve team 🙂

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The support from Evolve has proven invaluable over the past year – even for more established businesses, it is worthwhile to take a brief step back from day-to-day operations and assess your overall strategy and business direction. The long-term peer group format gives the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with other local founders and business owners, with an open forum to both discuss challenges and celebrate each others’ successes. Thanks to the support and guidance from Evolve, we have significantly developed our strategic plan, and have successfully applied for innovation grants to develop exciting new products which will act as pillars of our future growth. We highly recommend both the Evolve Business Accelerator programme and the wider Evolve support network for any business looking to grow.

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Producer
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Owner, Norco GRP Ltd
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