Enterprise

Halifax Opportunities Trust supports enterprise through our activities at Hanson Lane Enterprise Centre and Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre. Both facilities offer business accommodation and meeting room hire along with access to a range of advice and events such as HOT Networking. This year has seen HOT Networking grow significantly, with over 30 local businesses regularly attending meetings at Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre. The aim of the network is to bring together both the private and charity sectors to share best practice, offer peer-to-peer support and grow a strong, sustainable business and charity community in Calderdale.

Because we are a socially enterprising organisation, income from rental of these business and conferencing facilities supports the valuable work of the Trust in other areas. Since opening its doors just over 10 years ago, Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre has gift aided almost £1million up to Halifax Opportunities Trust from its trading surplus.

We also offers substantial rental subsidies to start-up businesses based at our business centres to encourage and support businesses to grow. Eligible tenants receive up to 50% of their rent paid through a grant from Halifax Opportunities Trust. We have supported 90 businesses with our grant scheme since launching it just over 10 years ago.

For more information about our enterprise support contact Jason Bell on 01422 399400 or click for Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre or Hanson Lane Enterprise Centre.

2022-2023 In Numbers

We create opportunities for businesses to grow and thrive, with high-quality workspaces and facilities. Throughout 2023 we have reached high occupancy levels across both sites and enabled over 300 employment opportunities.