In summary
I am proud to announce that FSB has been asked to represent small businesses on the new Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority Business Advisory Group, and the Skills and Employment Advisory Group. Representing our members needs at this level ensures that all small businesses across the county have a seat at the table, and we want you to share your views with us.
Email and contact details below.
Featured news and events
Visit our stand at Business Fest South West, a new business show taking place on 2nd April 2025 at Westpoint Arena, Exeter!
This event is set to attract 2,000+ visitors from across the South West, including SME business owners, entrepreneurs, sole proprietors, and self-employed professionals from a wide range of industries.
Business Fest South West 2025 is a chance to engage with some of the UK’s most innovative companies as they showcase their latest products and services. Whether you’re looking to generate leads, expand your professional network, or gain valuable insights, this event offers something for everyone.
Tickets are free for visitors, so make sure to visit our FSB stand at the event.
You can sign up for your free tickets here: Find out more about the event here:https://businessfestsw.co.uk/
Devon virtual networking
Taking place at 10.00am on 5 March, our friendly networking gives you a chance to network and make new contacts as well as the opportunity to add your details to the chat box. As usual, our host will be Jonathan Keable, FSB Volunteer from Plymouth.
You're sure of a warm welcome whether you're from Plymouth, Devon, or further afield. We look forward to seeing you online. We hold these on the first Wednesday of each month.
In other news
Digital & Leadership Skills Bootcamp (Devon)
Don't miss out on the opportunity to join these fully funded Skills Bootcamps starting in January with bootcamps available in Digital Marketing, Leadership and Management and Digital Business Skills. These 10-week courses are designed to help you enhance your digital marketing techniques, refine your business acumen, or develop strong leadership abilities.
Open to residents of Devon aged 19 and over, the courses are delivered primarily online, making them accessible to fit around your schedule.
Send less business waste to landfill and more to a good cause
A Good Thing is a not-for-profit, volunteer run organisation that makes it easy for businesses to donate unwanted items to local charities.
Free for businesses to make donations of up to 3 small (less than 5m3) items per month, up to a value of £1500. For larger or high value donations there is a small fee.
It is a simple-to-use app that makes donating easy. Input what you have, where you are, what timeframe you’re working to and what charities you’d like to support. The app does the matchmaking by finding a local charity that has a need for what you’re offering.
Still in the news
Support for small businesses from the Heart of the South West Growth Hub
There is free business advice and support services available for established businesses and those looking to start-up in Devon, Somerset, Plymouth and Torbay. The Growth Hub Advisers have the resources to link you with business support programmes and organisations that can help you start, run or grow your business.
They also offer up to date information on the many free or part-funded events and workshops available throughout the south west and beyond. Take a look at their Events pages to find the right workshop to benefit you and your business.
Find out how they can help you here or get in touch on 03456 047 047.
FSB South West Women in Business Virtual Networking
Our popular Devon and Cornwall Women in Business Networking has now been expanded and updated to become our FSB South West Women in Business Networking event.
Offering the same amazing networking, advice and support but adapted to increase participation and to reflect what our members have been asking for.
Find our more about the next event here:
More news and activity near you
Get in touch
Your FSB Development Manager for Devon is Carmen Hanif. If you'd like more information about the topics above, or if you have news about this area that you'd like to share, please get in touch.
- email us: [email protected]
- follow us on Facebook: @FSBDevon