Business Details
26 Years
experience
Expert Business Support in Rotherham
Rotherham Investment & Development Office RiDO (RiDO) is the dedicated economic development arm of Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council. Established in 2000, we provide impartial, professional, and completely free support to businesses at every stage of growth. Our team specialises in business start-up assistance, property search and marketing, recruitment and training advice, and investment facilitation.We collaborate with regional partners like the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub to deliver tailored solutions for local and international enterprises. With a proven track record of supporting over 200 businesses and fostering innovation through initiatives like the Launchpad programme, we combine deep local expertise with strategic partnerships to drive sustainable economic growth in Rotherham.
Services
Business Start-Up Support
Property Search
Investment Facilitation
Workforce Development
Economic Development
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We provide free, impartial business support services to companies at all stages
- Our team has supported over 200 businesses since 2000 with tailored solutions
- We offer direct access to regional investment networks and development hubs
- We maintain strategic partnerships with organisations like the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub
- We combine local expertise with international investment facilitation capabilities
What people say
Effective business support
Successful investment projects
Community development impact
Skilled team support
Services
Business Start-Up Support
Our Launchpad programme provides comprehensive support for new businesses, including idea validation, business planning, and access to funding opportunities. We offer workshops, one-to-one mentoring, and networking events to help entrepreneurs establish viable enterprises. With over 20 years' experience supporting 200+ businesses, our team helps navigate regulatory requirements and connect with local supply chains.
Property Search
We provide expert property search services for businesses seeking commercial premises in Rotherham. Our team offers market analysis, site selection assistance, and negotiation support for both new and expanding businesses. We maintain detailed records of available industrial, retail, and office spaces across the borough, including opportunities in our award-winning business centres.
Investment Facilitation
We assist inward investors considering Rotherham through tailored site visits, market intelligence, and introductions to local partners. Our services include identifying grant funding opportunities, navigating planning processes, and connecting with workforce development programmes. We work closely with major employers in the Advanced Manufacturing Park and Innovation District.
Workforce Development
Our team connects businesses with local training providers and employment programmes to address skills gaps. We facilitate apprenticeship schemes, support workforce retraining initiatives, and provide labour market intelligence. We also coordinate the Pioneers programme, which brings together business leaders to promote Rotherham as a prime location for employment.
Economic Development
We drive strategic economic development through major projects like Forge Island and Gulliver's Valley. Our team manages business hub operations, supports innovation districts, and implements local growth strategies. We coordinate with regional stakeholders to attract investment to priority sectors including advanced manufacturing, technology, and tourism.
Questions
What services does RiDO offer to new businesses?
We provide free start-up support including business planning, funding guidance, and access to our Launchpad programme for new entrepreneurs.
How can RiDO help established businesses expand?
We offer property search assistance, workforce development programmes, and introductions to funding opportunities for growing businesses.
What investment opportunities exist in Rotherham?
Rotherham offers opportunities in advanced manufacturing, technology, and tourism sectors with support from our investment facilitation team.
How do I access business support services?
Contact our team via phone or email to arrange a consultation and discuss your specific business requirements.
What areas does RiDO cover?
We primarily serve Rotherham Metropolitan Borough, supporting businesses across South Yorkshire's fastest-growing economy.
Are there business networking opportunities available?
Yes, we organise workshops, networking events, and manage the Pioneers business leadership programme.
