A Dorset business support group is holding an online masterclass in entrepreneurship – and the four startups chosen to attend will each receive an iPad to support their growth.

STRIDE Dorset has spent the last four months running events, workshops and specialist surgeries across the county and has organised a day-long conference to cap off the programme.

Jessica Dennis, programme co-ordinator, said: “We’ve put together one more event because the reaction of Dorset businesses has been so positive.

“We’re looking for entrepreneurs who have just started – or are about to start – an innovative business.

“The masterclass will use the wealth of knowledge within the STRIDE Dorset team to impart research, thinking tools and methodologies, as well as real-life examples of what business success combined with innovation looks like.

“It will include an introduction to innovation, marketing and competitor analysis support as well as advice on business growth.

“The entrepreneurial spirit is fuelled by blue-sky thinking, which is great, but the refinement and enhancement of that thinking is often a challenge to condense into a practical and achievable strategy.

“The masterclass will give attendees insights into how to innovate quickly, cheaply and efficiently.

“There are a huge number of innovative individuals across Dorset, and we want to help them at the beginning of what can be a daunting adventure.”

The event takes place on 27 February from 9.30am to 1.30pm.

Applicants must be from the area covered by Dorset Council.

• Those interested are invited to send their business idea or startup model to [email protected]