Two Step

A grassroots business accelerator built by DIY creative founders, for DIY creative founders. Supporting sole traders, freelancers, and micro-organisations in Bristol’s music and creative scene with practical training, mentoring, and paid internships.

The answer to your business goals — let’s get started.

Programmes

Whether you’re just starting out or already established, our Two-Step Programmes are designed to meet you where you are and help you take the next step. Each programme offers tailored guidance, inspiration, and practical support. Explore the programme pages to find out which one is right for you.

START

Introduction to Enterprise: 3-Day Workshop

Turn your idea into a thriving business.

Are you ready to start your own venture, or already in the early stages of building one? We have partnered with Bristol Enterprise Support to provide a 3-Day Introduction to Enterprise Workshop is designed to give City of Bristol-based pre-start and start-up founders the skills, tools, and confidence to take the next step.

Over three practical, hands-on days you’ll:

  • Test your market and identify your ideal customers

  • Learn the essentials of business planning, marketing, and finance

  • Create a clear, workable business plan

  • Connect with experienced advisors and a supportive peer group

This is your chance to gain tailored, fully funded business support in a friendly, collaborative setting.

Fully Funded Support

This workshop is funded through the Community Connector Grants, part of the Bristol Business Enterprise Support project (BrisBES).

BrisBES is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority, and delivered by YTKO.

Building on nearly ten years of partnership, the scheme works with community groups and ambassadors to connect underrepresented entrepreneurs and SMEs in Bristol with free, practical business support.

Who Can Join?

This opportunity is exclusively available to pre-start and start-up businesses based in the City of Bristol.

Find out more and register here for September →

SCALE

The Two Step: Scale Programme, run by Noods Levels, is a growth accelerator designed to support established music businesses in the West of England to take their next step.

Delivered by PLOT, this six-part programme covers the essentials of scaling a creative business — from IP & AI, funding and finance, and legal know-how, to team growth and leadership.

Participants will bring a growth project to develop across the programme, whether that means creating jobs, launching new products or services, generating more income, or expanding impact in new ways. Alongside expert guidance, each business will also receive support from a funded creative freelancer (30 hours, paid at £14/hour) to bring fresh skills and perspectives into their work.

Key Dates

  • Applications open: 3rd September 2025

  • Application guidance session: 17th September 2025, 1–2pm (online)

  • Applications close: 9th October 2025, 5pm

  • Decisions announced: 29th October 2025

  • Programme starts: 3rd December 2025.

APPLICATION FORM

GUIDANCE DOC

UPCOMING: Application Surgery Session [Online] 1300-1400 >> TICKET HERE

Join Gill Wildman, Scale Programme Delivery Partner, for an interactive session on what Scale can offer your business, what we’re looking for in applications, and a chance to have your questions answered.

Sessions

START: SEPTEMBER

Held at Park Centre in South Bristol, this I2E workshop offers three immersive days of in-person support for pre-start and start-up businesses. You’ll learn practical tools for business planning, marketing, and finance in a collaborative environment, supported by expert advisors and fellow entrepreneurs.


Over three full days at Park Centre, you’ll gain the knowledge, confidence, and tools to move your business idea forward. The workshop covers customer discovery, financial planning, marketing strategies, and building a practical business plan. Delivered face-to-face by YTKO’s experienced advisors, this programme also offers valuable networking with other local entrepreneurs. Fully funded and open exclusively to City of Bristol start-ups and founders.

Dates: 23-25 September 2025
Location: Park Centre, Daventry Road, Bristol, BS4 1DQ
Sign-up link:  Register here →

START: OCTOBER

Join us at Spaceworks in October for an interactive 3-day workshop designed to take your business idea from concept to action. You’ll gain practical business skills, peer support, and one-to-one guidance in a welcoming, community-focused venue.


This in-person Introduction to Enterprise workshop at Spaceworks offers three days of expert-led training for City of Bristol pre-start and start-up founders. You’ll cover the essentials of business planning, finance, and marketing while working alongside a supportive group of peers. With hands-on guidance and plenty of networking opportunities, this workshop provides a strong foundation for launching your enterprise. Fully funded through the BrisBES programme.

Dates: 21–23 October 2025
Location: Spaceworks, Knowle West Media Centre, Leinster Avenue, Bristol, BS4 1NL
Sign-up link: Register here →

START: NOVEMBER

The November online I2E workshop is perfect for founders who prefer flexible, home-based learning. Across three interactive mornings, you’ll work with experienced advisors to develop your business idea, test your market, and build a plan for success—all while connecting with peers in the Bristol enterprise community.

Delivered live via Zoom, this fully funded 3-day Introduction to Enterprise workshop equips Bristol entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills to grow a business from the ground up. With a mix of expert teaching, breakout discussions, and practical exercises, you’ll learn how to define your customer base, understand your finances, and map a clear plan forward. Ideal for those unable to attend in-person workshops.

Dates: 11–13 November 2025
Location: Online (via Zoom)
Sign-up link: Register here →

How to apply for an Award

Read through all of the following steps to guide you in your application. We are committed to using our resources to drive change. At least 50% of our Awards will support social entrepreneurs who come from a low income, disabled and/or Black, Asian or minority ethnic background.

To sign up for a START course, book in directly through eventbite.

Frequently asked questions

  • These workshops are open to pre-start and start-up businesses based in the City of Bristol. If you have a business idea, are just starting out, or have been trading for less than two years, you’re welcome to apply.

  • The workshops are completely free. They are fully funded through the Community Connector Grants, part of the Bristol Business Enterprise Support project (BrisBES), funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority, and delivered by YTKO.

  • You’ll gain a practical understanding of how to start and grow your business. Topics include business planning, marketing, finance, customer discovery, and building a realistic business plan. You’ll also have opportunities to network with peers and get guidance from experienced business advisors.

  • Yes, we recommend attending the full three days to get the most value. Each session builds on the last, ensuring you leave with a complete set of tools and a clear action plan for your business.

Get in touch.

Want to find out more? Fill in the form below to connect with a member of our team — we’ll get back to you within 2 working days.