For more information about the below FSB events, and if you would like to be a guest speaker, guest host at any future local networking events, or if you would like a 1-to-1 chat about your business and FSB benefits, please contact [email protected]
Pitching and presenting your business
From DBT / Export Academy on Friday 2 February join Jeremy Brimin this session to focus on pitching and presenting. You will learn the story-boarding process, become confident in presenting to an international audience and impress with your new pitch. Register now.
International Marketing Strategy
From DBT / Export Academy on Tuesday 6 February join Dr. Eren Kocyigit will present effective marketing strategies for expanding your business in international channels. You will learn practical skills for managing your media platforms and media tactics to grow your marketing to international audiences. Register now.
FSB drop-in Business support
NEW for 2024. Drop in for a range of business support and relaxed networking on Thursday 8 February. Join us as we dive into key issues, exchange ideas, and discover how the FSB and the local small business community can help you. Share what support you need and what you are looking for, then join a solution-focused discussion to receive support from FSB and the local small business community. Book now.
Bidding and closing deals
Another session from DBT / Export Academy on Friday 9 February with Jeremy Brim, join this session to understand what is involved when bidding and closing deals for your business overseas. You will learn negotiation skills, formulate how to get a deal, and close a deal. Register now.
FSB Awards applications closing soon
The Awards are free to enter, be quick the closing date is Sunday 11 February. There are 12 categories, from start-ups to sustainability, there’ll be a category for you. We’re recognising the achievements of small businesses in a wide range of areas, like innovation, export and digital. Wondering about why to enter and what to say on your application, watch the webinar award-winning business. For more information about the Awards and to apply, click here.
A conversation with Theo Paphitis
A unique opportunity to join an online masterclass session on Monday 12 February, to hear from the renowned entrepreneur. There will be discussion on challenges, successes and insights, which will propel you to grow your business to international markets. You will understand key principles and strategies employed by Theo Paphitis. Register here.
Microsoft Training
Cumbria businesses are invited to an in-person workshop delivered by Lake Mill Training as part of the Cumbria Accelerator programme by Cumbria LEP. Held on Saturday 16 February in Penrith, this workshop will provide you with the tools to use applications to full potential. Book now.
Entrepreneurs Market
Hopes are high for better weather conditions than last month, which saw the high winds cancelling the Market due to safety concerns for the gazebos. Supporting the shop local to support local businesses, the town centre regeneration starts with the Market on King Street, Whitehaven. This month on Saturday 17 February will have over 35 businesses showcasing their services.
Public Consultation in Penrith
Penrith Neighbourhood Plan consultation is open until Sunday 18 February. You can view the documents at the Town Hall, Penrith Library, or here online. The Policies available for consultation are Policy 8 Green Spaces and Policy 9 Sport, Leisure, and Recreation. Gives your views via the online survey.
Funding for sustainability in accommodation
The Sustainable Grant Fund supports small accommodations in the Lake District, funding is now open, closing for applications on Monday 19 February. Funding is subject to criteria and projects the money can be used on includes, energy efficiency upgrades, renewable energy installation, water conservation, green infrastructure, and sustainable transport. For more information, click here.
Green business opportunity
Morecambe Bay Partnership are looking for commercial operators such as holiday parks, local hotels and B&B, and other accommodation businesses to host and operate a fleet of e-bikes to hire. Funding through the Levelling Up allows for a 75% discount on the one-year lease cost of the e-bikes, businesses then take ownership. This creates a real opportunity to support low carbon tourism and sustainable transport. To learn about the Ways Around the Bay, the new cycling network and the journey planner, read here. For more information on the e-bikes, click here.
FSB Virtual Networking
New for 2024, FSB Members will guest host providing you with a warm welcome. Join this friendly session on Wednesday 28 February to feel part of the local business community within Lancashire & Cumbria. Guest Host this month is FSB Member Stuart Holcroft, of Fearless Putting Ltd. Stuart will be joined by a guest speaker. Prepare and bring along your 30 second elevator pitch; see our useful guide on Elevator Pitch to perfect yours. Book now.
Lakes Hospitality Trade Show
Come and see us in-person at Stand M22. Counting down to the two day event to celebrate the hospitality industry as it brings together visitors and suppliers. Held on Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 February 10am to 4pm at the J36 Rural Auction Centre. With so many exhibitors, you will find them in the main hall and the attached marquee. A Demo Zone will inspire you and you will have networking opportunities to make new contacts. Book your free ticket.
Important business news for March, but be quick!
Cumbria Tourism Awards
Cumbria tourism and hospitality industry can spotlight their businesses as the Awards open for 2024. There are 16 categories and the closing date is Friday 1 March. Eligible winners in many categories will have the chance for national applause, feeding directly into the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025. For full information on the Awards actegories and entry, click here.
Harnessing Best Workplace Behaviours and Fostering Good Culture
Join Cumbria LEP for a transformative half-day session on Friday 1 March in-person at the Cumbria LEP Conference Centre. Through interactive sessions, identify your business strengths and areas for improvements, understand how individual and group behaviours can impact the business, and, gain insights into the benefits of a strong culture. Reserve your place.
Green grants for carbon reduction
Westmorland & Furness businesses can apply for grants upto £10,000 (between £3,000 to £10,000 need a 30% match from the business). Activities supported by the grants include but not limited to; training and coaching, research and development, renewable energy technology, additional insulation, upgrading electrical infrastructure and waste reduction. Closing date is Friday 15 March, for more information and the application form, head to the website for Cumbria Business Growth Hub.
What You May Have Missed
- How to be an Award-winning business webinar
- Cracking the case: Uncovering the cost of small business crime
- Creating your 30-seconds elevator pitch
Meet The Team - Lancashire & Cumbria
