The Economic Recovery Fund (ERF) ran between February 2021 and April 2025. It was a unique, innovative grant fund that aims to support local economic recovery in local high streets by empowering local groups of businesses to implement changes themselves.
Julian Gjini bought his café on Abbeydale Road when there were hardly any thriving businesses in the area, and has watched the independent business community grow to the point where Tesco is almost the only chain store on the street.
Connecting the Heart of the City to Castlegate, Fargate is one of the most important areas of the city. It’s time to revitalise it and make it the destination Sheffield deserves.
In 3 words: culture, nature, friendliness. Find out what makes this city unique.
Jules is the owner of Hop Hideout beer shop, as well as the founder of Sheffield Beer Week, a city-wide annual event with an independent ethos at its heart.
With over 30 years' experience spanning design, renovation, and brand strategy, I’ve worked across a wide mix of sectors – from interiors and property to sustainable development and community enterprise. I’ve co-founded retail businesses, led creative projects for everything from hydrogen energy to high street renewal, and I bring a hands-on, practical approach to supporting small businesses.
In 2018 The Times declared Sheffield the Northern Capital of Cool. In 2022 The Observer Food Monthly awards gave 5/6 Runners Up spots across the Food and Drink categories to Sheffield establishments. So are we now the Northern Capital of Food too?
Look Up is a free, immersive public art trail occupying the rooftops of four notable Sheffield buildings. It's an experience for everyone to enjoy, created by Sheffield companies, artists, studios and producers, truly showcasing what Sheffield makes.
Matt moved to Sheffield in 1998 for a degree at Sheffield Hallam University and fell in love with the city.