Published on
14 December 2023
Drop-in session gives advice and guidance to local businesses
Our first drop-in session after the pandemic to support entrepreneurs on starting, running or growing a business
A number of local enterprises have received free advice and guidance on starting a new business or taking an existing business to the next level at a drop-in session organised by Wokingham Borough Council.
In support of Small Business Saturday, a national campaign that champions small businesses, the council partnered with Berkshire Growth Hub and Federation of Small Businesses to hold its first drop-in session after the pandemic, as part of its continued support to the local business community.
Entrepreneurs, mostly from micro and small businesses, attended the event and had a chance to discuss with council officers and the two partner organisations on many aspects of starting, running or growing a business.
The most asked about topics included how to access funding, finding suitable premises, and stepping up marketing and promotion. Some also hoped to understand more about the support available to them in terms of legal protection, insurance and human resources.
Participants were given information on some key issues facing many small businesses today, such as recruitment, training and upskilling, and how to decarbonise their operations.
New opportunities for local businesses
Cllr David Cornish, executive member for business and economic development said: “As the creative industry is fast-growing in the borough, our business outlook is set to be promising.
“Small trades and others that supply the film and TV sector will continue to see new opportunities springing up. The number of home-based businesses is also expected to increase, as we can see from the interest of micro and small businesses in this drop-in session.
“We’re in the process of enhancing our business and economic development strategy to reflect our long term thinking about helping our local economy thrive and grow. Input from the borough’s business community is essential and we will work hard to ensure we get their views.
“Last but not least, we’d like to thank Salty Olive for providing the venue for this event.”
