A rural business start-up and mentoring programme aims to breathe new life into the countryside.

Launched by the Arthur Rank Centre, the Germinate Enterprise project is a programme that can be delivered by community groups and churches.

The six-session programme aims to help create jobs and retain working age people in villages – taking advantage of high speed broadband where available.

Germinate Enterprise is also billed as a way to tackle hidden rural poverty and encourage farm diversification.

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A free workbook, written by entrepreneurs, helps participants know if running a business is for them, what business to run, and whether the selected idea is viable.

Arthur Rank Centre chief executive Jerry Marshall said the programme had been two years in the making, including a number of pilot participants.

"We are delighted that after two years of development and testing, our Germinate Enterprise rural business start-up materials are available for free download."

The course is designed to be simple but profound and accessible to people from all educational backgrounds.

It is especially appropriate for those unsure whether they should start a business.

Materials include a workbook, session plan, visual aids, business plan and cash flow templates, and local advertising posters and flyers.

There is no licence fee when delivered by a not-for-profit organisation. For-profit businesses should contact the Arthur Rank Centre.

Printed workbooks will be available to buy soon. For full information and the materials, visit www.germinate.net/go/enterprise.