In summary
It has been an awesome & busy first month as the DM for Lancashire & Cumbria.
I visited the Women In Tech expo', attended the West Yorkshire Virtual networking, popped into Rossendale Means Business event, enjoyed the Women in Enterprise report launch in York and finished it off with Lancashire & Cumbria Business Surgery.
I even found time to meet with Andrew Leeming, Boost Programme Manager, Lancashire County Council and had a fab chat with Paul Foster, Head of Programmes, Cumbria Economic Programmes Team.
I would love to connect with members out there in Lancashire & Cumbria, so feel free to pop me an email or grab me on LinkedIn.
Read on to find out more.
Featured news and events
Cumbria Economic Growth Board Member Recruitment
The newly formed Economic Growth Board are looking for new member. It provides a strong business voice in strategy development and ensure that decisions are taken in the best interests for people and places in Cumbria.
This is a fantastic opportunity to be a critical part of the Cumbria Economic Growth Board.
Lancashire & Cumbria Women in Business
In-person event, bringing female entrepreneurs together, to address topical key issues, exchange ideas, and build connections. You will feel supported, inspired and empowered, all within a nurturing and supportive community.
Book your free delegate place now >
In other news
Access to Finance Investment Academy - 10 Jul
Boost’s Access to Finance service has launched a new Investment Academy designed to help Lancashire businesses better understand how to secure equity investment.
The programme, which is fully funded by Boost, will support an initial cohort of up to 20 Lancashire business leaders through four face-to-face sessions which will take place in September and October.
Those who are interested in the Investment Academy are invited to an online launch event on the 10 July. It will include an overview of the current business finance landscape, further details about the Academy and give eligible businesses the opportunity to submit expressions of interest.
“By taking part, business leaders will gain a strong understanding of whether they are ready for external investment, the right option for them and how to find and secure it.”
Book your free delegate place now >
The Lancashire Festival returns!
The festival is in Miller Park, Preston between 11am and 9pm on 27 July at “The Lancashire Festival” for a spectacular celebration of arts, culture, and community spirit!
Immerse yourself in a vibrant showcase of local talent, featuring live performances, art exhibitions and delicious culinary delights.
Let the enchanting atmosphere captivate you as we come together to celebrate the rich tapestry of Lancashire’s cultural heritage.
Connect with fellow enthusiasts, support local artists, and indulge in a day filled with joy, creativity, and memorable experiences. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to be part of an event that celebrates the essence of Lancashire!
Tickets now on sale for £2.25 – £3.00
Natwest Accelerator
The NatWest Accelerator is now open in three hubs in the North, Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle. It supports and empowers UK entrepreneurs and business owners to scale their businesses to the next level.
Through their six month fully funded Accelerator they wrap around support and
expertise, removing barriers to help businesses grow.
Still in the news
Free Live Music at Carlisle Cathedral
This summer enjoy a host of Live Music events, right in the heart of the city.
'We are home to the Bishop’s ‘seat’, the mother church of the Diocese for over 900 years and we welcome all whether a curious visitor'
The concerts are free; a collection is taken at the end of the event so please pay what you can to support the artist and the Cathedral.
Booking is not essential, however, booking in advance is available for those who wish to do so. Advance booking can help us to better plan and prepare for the event.
- Wednesday 10 July, 2pm - Organ Recital with David T Shingler (current Organ Scholar at Carlisle Cathedral)
- Saturday 20 July, 1.15pm - Concert by The Abbey Singers
- Wednesday 31 July, 2pm - Organ Recital with Edward Taylor (Assistant Organist at Carlisle Cathedral)
The organ recitals will take place in the Cathedral; all other events will take place in the Fratry Hall, accessed via the Café entrance.
New funding available for community orchards
Westmorland and Furness Council has launched a second round of funding for its Community Orchard Fund which helps communities to establish community orchards in their local areas.
Community groups, charities, schools and community spaces in Westmorland and Furness are encouraged to apply for funding to establish a community orchard in their local area.
Grants of up to £10,000 are available to plant a minimum of 5 fruit and/or nut trees planted until 31 March 2025. The funding can be used to cover the costs of establishing an orchard such as ground preparation, purchasing and planting trees, and protection and irrigation.
The closing date for applications is 12pm on Friday 19 July.
Assistant Director for Climate and Natural Environment, Claire Gould, said:
“Community orchards are great for our pollinators and an opportunity for people to learn about wildlife, planting, and maintenance of trees. They provide fresh, local and healthy food to people, as well as support wildlife and improve the land in a natural way."
More news and activity near you
- Greater Manchester
- Merseyside and Cheshire
- More from FSB North West
Get in touch
Your FSB Development Manager for Lancashire and Cumbria is Katy Smythe. 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 x: @FSBLancsCumbria
- follow us on Facebook: @FSB.Lancashire.Cumbria