A Redditch-based entrepreneur has turned nearly two decades of bid management and writing experience into a thriving consultancy thanks to the bespoke business support they received from Enterprising Worcestershire.
Karen Nolan launched her business, Bid Essentials, in January 2023 after leaving a long-standing corporate career in the construction sector.
With support from Enterprising Worcestershire’s Business Coaching programme, delivered by Worcestershire County Council on behalf of the District councils, she successfully transitioned from a freelancer to offering strategic support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Her new business model focuses on one-to-one coaching, bid training and tender readiness assessments, helping SMEs build the skills and confidence to win public sector contracts. She also launched a Bid Forum to encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing within the small business community.
Karen first contacted Worcestershire Growth Hub for advice on a digital platform idea.
This led to tailored coaching, marketing support and a place on Betaden Incubate, the county’s technology accelerator —giving her the clarity to refine her offer and begin developing the new platform.
Karen Nolan, Founder of Bid Essentials said: “The support I received has helped me move from just delivering tenders to helping others succeed in them. I now work with growing businesses every day and love seeing their confidence grow. That one conversation with the Growth Hub really changed everything.”
She has since become an approved SkillsBoost provider and was nominated for a Chamber of Commerce award in June 2025. Looking ahead, she plans to launch a Virtual Bid Assistant service, giving SMEs real-time help navigating complex tender processes.
Gary Woodman, Assistant Director for Economy at Worcestershire County Council, said: “Karen’s story is a great example of how Worcestershire’s business support network helps people turn expertise into opportunity. We’re proud to support entrepreneurs like Karen who not only grow their own business but give back by helping others thrive.”
If you're a business owner in Worcestershire looking to grow, diversify or innovate, Worcestershire County Council offers a wide range of support available from expert advice to funding access and innovation programmes.
Contact Worcestershire Growth Hub to find out how they can help your business succeed.
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