Funding & Support
Government announces support package that backs British pubs
Major support package announced, as the government recognises the challenges facing the industry and the vital role they play in building strong local communities.
Recognising the value they bring and the challenges they face, the government is introducing a support package to save the average pub an additional £1,650 in 2026/27. Around 75% of pubs will see their bills fall or stay flat over the same year with the pub sector as a whole paying 8% less in business rates in 2029 than they do currently. This support comes on top of the £4.3 billion package the Chancellor announced at Budget 2025.
Business Growth Workshops
Rugby First Launches Comprehensive Skills Training Initiative for Local Businesses
Rugby First has launched an ambitious new training programme offering fully funded business development courses to local businesses, responding directly to business community feedback highlighting the need for enhanced skills support and grant-funded opportunities.
The comprehensive 10-course programme, developed in partnership with Customer Experience Specialist Shaun Cremins CCXP from insight6 and the Warwickshire Skills Hub, combines eight specialist Customer Experience (CX) workshops, plus additional workplace safety and mental wellbeing courses.
Deadline to Apply: Friday 26 September 2025
Business Engagement Event
Rugby Borough Council’s Economic Development Team announces Business Engagement Event at Benn Hall
Thursday 9 October, 8AM - 1PM
The Benn Hall, Rugby, CV21 2LN
Join us for breakfast and a morning of connecting with business support partners and industry experts, hear from our councillors and council officers and local business speakers.
The event will include panel discussions, Q and A sessions, and opportunities to engage with innovative local businesses. This year we have 2 streams of workshops, panels and conversations tailored businesses across Rugby borough. If you are a business in engineering, manufacturing, logistics and supply chain - the B2B Stream is for you.