Cannock business consultancy receives council contract to support start-ups

Go True North UK, a Hednesford-based business consultancy and start-up support specialist, has been awarded a formal contract by Staffordshire County Council (SCC) to deliver business start-up mentoring and growth support across Cannock.

The contract, part of SCC's programme reference IA3856, recognises Go True North's track record in helping aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses move from idea to viable venture.

Go True North will deliver support through its flagship Vision to Venture programme, a structured 12-module online learning and mentoring programme built on Lean Start-up methodology.

Founded by Neil Betts, a Staffordshire-based entrepreneur with a background in engineering, Lean process improvement and senior leadership — Go True North has supported individuals and businesses across the Midlands region since establishing its UK base in 2024.

The Vision to Venture programme has already supported a founding cohort of entrepreneurs through a structured journey from business idea to launch-ready venture.

Neil Betts (pictured), founder of Go True North UK, said: "Winning this contract is a real milestone for us.

“Staffordshire has a fantastic entrepreneurial community, and we're proud to be able to support people who are taking that brave step of starting their own business.

“Our Vision to Venture programme gives them a genuine framework — not just inspiration, but practical tools, mentoring and a community to grow with."

Vision to Venture is Go True North's proprietary start-up development programme, combining structured online learning with live mentoring, peer community and practical business-building workshops.

The programme covers everything from validating a business idea and mapping the Lean Canvas, through to pricing, marketing, and launching a business with confidence.

The programme is delivered via Go True North's online learning platform and is designed to be accessible for people at any stage of their entrepreneurial journey — whether they are still exploring an idea or are ready to take their first paying customers.

Go True North is a business consultancy specialising in Lean process improvement, business growth strategy, and entrepreneurial development.

Originally founded in Australia in 2013 by Neil Betts and Chris Alford, the UK operation was established in Hednesford, Staffordshire, in February 2024.

Go True North's services span start-up support, business growth consultancy, and organisational transformation.