Business support for London's South Asian entrepreneurs

Starting a business is no small feat – and navigating the entrepreneurial world can be especially challenging without the right networks or support systems in place.

For South Asian entrepreneurs in London, finding tailored resources that understand your unique cultural and community context can make all the difference.

In recognition of South Asian Heritage Month, we've put together a round-up of free (or low-cost) support available to South Asian founders and business owners across the capital.

From funding opportunities and free business advice to mental health support and community events, this list is designed to help you access the help you need to start or grow your venture.

You can also find details of how Grow London Local can support your journey – including free consultations available in Bengali, Marathi, Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi.

What is South Asian Heritage Month?

South Asian Heritage Month runs from 18 July to 17 August every year. It celebrates and raises awareness of British South Asian heritage and history through education, arts, culture and storytelling. A great moment each year to spotlight entrepreneurs, community leaders and changemakers.

Organisations ready to support South Asian entrepreneurs

South Asian Heritage Trust – events, workshops and networking

The South Asian Heritage Trust – which runs South Asian Heritage Month – hosts projects, workshops, school programmes and events and acts as a resource hub year-round.

These platforms can serve as networking and speaking opportunities for South Asian entrepreneurs.

Centre for Entrepreneurs (CFE) – training and community for early-stage founders

CFE is a charity that supports people from all backgrounds to start and grow businesses. Its flagship six-month entrepreneur development programme gives early-stage founders access to expert mentoring, skills workshops and a vibrant community.

It's free to join and has supported many diverse entrepreneurs across the UK, including those from South Asian backgrounds.

A great option if you're looking to build your business confidence, expand your network and scale your idea with structured, practical support.

Launch It – free incubation hubs across London

Launch It offers free workspace, mentoring and training for young entrepreneurs (18 to 30) in centres like Tottenham, Peckham and Mitcham. A practical stepping-stone for bootstrapping ventures.

London Community Foundation – community project grants

For community-focused social enterprises, the London Community Foundation offers small grants (£500 to £50,000), plus capacity-building support. Ideal for grassroots South Asian-led ventures.

UnLtd – grants and mentoring for social entrepreneurs

UnLtd provides cash awards, mentoring, networking and pro bono support for social ventures. Open to UK-wide founders – including London-based South Asian business owners – it's ideal for mission-driven entrepreneurship.

Grow London Local – our free business support

At Grow London Local, we offer guidance, resources and events across a range of business topics from marketing and finance to legal and sales.

Take our free Business Success Check to get personalised recommendations based on your business needs.

We can offer you a free consultation in Bengali, Marathi, Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi – you can also learn more about our Business Support Managers and find out more about the Grow London Local team.

Other available support

General business support and networking

• Babes On Waves Club: an online club for female founders, freelancers, creators and entrepreneurs from all ethnic backgrounds.

• Foundervine: an organisation that creates opportunities in underserved communities and makes innovation open to anyone, anywhere.

• The Stack: a community and meeting place for women in business to grow personally and professionally, gain inspiration and learn.

• YSYS: become part of a diverse startup community that runs programmes, campaigns and workshops and advocates for a more inclusive startup ecosystem.

Business finance and funding

• Chorus Network: a network that matches socially or environmentally committed businesses with suitable investment.

• Community Growth Ventures: a London-based group offering angel investment to underrepresented founders of new startups.

• Conduit Connect: a dedicated team that can introduce your businesses to suitable investors and mentors.

• Cornerstone Angel Network: an angel investment network focused on investing in businesses owned and run by founders like you.

• Creative England: need help taking your business to the next stage? Get a cash injection and related support to make your growth plans a reality.

• Extend Ventures: if you're finding it difficult to access venture capital, these specialists can help.

• FSE Group: have a strong proposal to expand your business but can't get the finance? This fund was set up to support growing businesses like yours.

• Hatch Enterprise: develop the skills you need to grow your business, with Hatch's mix of events, peer support, hands-on seminars and individual expert support.

• Lendoe: a finance company dedicated to funding Black, ethnic-minority, early-stage and women-led businesses.

• The Collective Foundation: want to create positive social impact for your community? These programmes, mentorship schemes and networks can help you achieve your aims.

• UnLtd: get finance, mentoring, workshops and other pro bono guidance from this organisation that funds and supports social entrepreneurs. 

Grow London Local: Support for London's small businesses

No matter where you're based in London, you'll find relevant support and guidance on business planning, sales and marketing and much more, as well as opportunities to connect with like-minded business owners. Visit Grow London Local now