University and business experts unite to provide free advice for West Sussex entrepreneurs
BUDDING entrepreneurs and established enterprises are being urged to make the most of free advice from a consortium of business experts.
A series of workshops organised by the University of Chichester are being hosted in Horsham this month to help firms in the region. The free events, funded by Horsham District Council, are aimed at people thinking of starting a business as well as already-established businesses.
The workshops are each held at Horsham training centre, Hurst Road, Horsham, RH12 2DN.
University business start-up manager Gareth Sear said: “Our aim is that people who attend the sessions come away with the ability to vocalise and plan their business and overcome any barriers they face. It is also a good chance to meet other owners and find out about opportunities of working with the University and Horsham District Council as well as their partners.”
Business masterclass: Wednesday 18 July
The practicalities of running a business is the theme of the expert-led masterclass. The two-hour event, which runs from 9:30am to 11:30am, provides an introduction to business finance including how to apply for grants and funds.
It will be followed by an overview of how to create a social media strategy for business. The presentation, delivered by Michelle Betts of By Jove Media, will cover the use of key platforms and introduce basic strategic principles to improve engagement with customers.
Business growth groups: from Thursday 19 July
The growth groups provide advice for firms that have been trading for at least 12 months and are looking to create growth. The sessions, which start from next week, are held across five meetings that run until December and are delivered by MDHub, a group of industry-leading peer-to-peer experts.
Each group, which comprise ten entrepreneurs, lasts for two hours and is led by an expert who will share their knowledge of a specialist area. The sessions keep the same delegates across all five meetings to help people develop strong relationships with other owners.
Business start-up discovery: Thursday 26 July
A start-up evening advice session is being hosted for those thinking of starting or who have recently launched a business. The workshop, which runs from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, will provide insights into how to start a company. Topics include how to create a business model, the art of giving a verbal business card, and the top marketing tips to make a difference.
For more visit the Horsham training centre, Hurst Road, Horsham, RH12 2DN. Alternatively go to www.chi.ac.uk/business and www.horsham.gov.uk or contact University of Chichester business start-up manager Gareth Sear at g.sear@chi.ac.uk.
