A NEW programme aimed at supporting York graduates to set up their own business has got of the ground with assistance from one of the city’s law firms.

York law firm Rollits has supported York St John University in the first of its “Grad2Director” Programmes, developed by specialist consultant Dr John Park in conjunction with York St John’s Business School.

The Programme is aimed at supporting recent graduates to start and develop their own businesses, with expert training and mentoring accompanied by an online learning package.

Andrew Digwood, a partner at the firm’s York office in Monks Cross Drive, said: “We have supported the Programme by providing a pro bono workshop and discussion session for the new entrepreneurs on Intellectual Property Law.

“We also helped by providing assistance to incorporate new limited companies as vehicles for the startup businesses, with the University meeting the cost of the incorporations for those businesses which successfully complete the programme.

“We were very impressed by the entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm demonstrated by all of the participants that we met and hope that the partnership with York St John will continue as the programme moves into its next phase.”

The Rollits team was led by Dispute Resolution partner Mr Digwood assisted by Donna Barnett from the firm’s corporate department.

Dr John Park who developed the programme said: “The diversity of business ideas that have come forward have been very impressive, from simple ideas to work as a freelance copyrighter, to mobile Apps, video production companies, cosmetics, e-commerce websites, novel home furniture designs, and social media community sites and community counselling support systems to help the NHS.

“The founders have come forward with enthusiasm and commitment and have worked extremely hard on the programme to develop viable business opportunities.

“his is probably one of the most enjoyable business start-up programmes I have ever had the good fortune to be involved in.”