Start your own business

REDA is committed to help local people take the first steps to working for themselves, and developing new and existing businesses. Explore self-employment and start-up support in Reading:

Weekly Self-Employment Drop-In Sessions

If you’ve ever thought about working for yourself, making money from a hobby, or starting your own small business, our free weekly drop-ins are for you. These friendly and flexible sessions offer practical, one-to-one support on everything from setting up as self-employed and running your own business to making money online or turning a passion into income.

There’s no need to book — just come along for clear, step-by-step advice, confidence building and tailored guidance at your own pace. Everyone is welcome.

Drop-in sessions run every Thursday between 10am and 3:30pm in Whitley, Reading. Workshops will continue every Thursday (excluding Christmas) through to February 2026, providing ongoing opportunities for advice and guidance.

Upcoming Dates

• 11th Dec – Whitley Community Development Association Cafe (morning only 10am - 12pm)

• 18th Dec – Hexham Road Community Centre

• 8th Jan – Whitley Community Development Association Cafe

• 15th Jan – Hexham Road Community Centre

• 22nd Jan – Whitley Community Development Association Cafe

• 29th Jan – Whitley Community Development Association Cafe

• 5th Feb – Whitley Community Development Association Cafe

• 12th Feb – Hexham Road Community Centre

• 19th Feb – Whitley Community Development Association Cafe

Berkshire Growth Hub Start Up Course

FREE courses throughout the year. Suitable for those who are in the early days of trading, or ready to launch a developed business idea with intensive online and in person training. More details and lots more online information on start up here: berkshiregrowthhub.co.uk/start-up-programme/