In summary
The main summer break season is nearly upon us. So, you’d be forgiven for thinking that FSB would be taking a break itself. However, that’s not the case!
In this FSB area, our members and event participants have often commented that they welcome the fact that we steam ahead – just as they have to in their small businesses.
So, keep an eye on FSB.org.uk for all the latest information, small business networking and business development opportunities.
Featured news and events
Get yourself 'Set For Success'
We continue to receive rave reviews for our FSB Business Bootcamp events, which are designed specifically for small business owners by providing valuable learning, networking and fun experiences.
Responding to positive feedback, we have grown the FSB Bootcamp concept to become a national programme, with events in most FSB areas throughout this year.
In the Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire patch, we went one step further. We decided to deliver two Bootcamps in 2024 – because of the expansive geography of the three counties and because we wanted to offer the experience to as many small business owners as possible.
The first, in Worcestershire, was themed ‘Power Up Your Potential’. It took place on 5 June at the fabulous Bank House Hotel in Bransfield and generated rave reviews.
The second, in Shropshire, is themed ‘Set For Success’, with us returning to the Wroxeter Hotel in Shrewsbury on Wednesday 2 October.
Alongside relaxed and speed networking, we have an impressive lineup of speakers – all with impeccable credentials – who will share their ideas and advice on how to succeed in business
Delegate places are free. Exhibition spaces are also available at very cost-effective rates.
See the Featured Event section for more info.
FSB Bootcamp Shropshire – 'Set For Success'
Join us for our second FSB Bootcamp of 2024 where you can book your FREE delegate place or invest a modest amount to secure a prime exhibition space in front of 100+ local small business owners.
In other news
Go for growth in Worcestershire
Worcestershire businesses are being encouraged to engage with the Worcestershire Growth Hub to find out more about the support available to them.
For the current 2024-2025 year, there is a variety of new business support, funding and grants available to support the growth of enterprises across Worcestershire.
There is support available for businesses looking to upskill or train their staff, access specialist expert advice, find funding for growth ambitions and much more.
With so much on offer, local business owners and leaders are being encouraged to contact the Worcestershire Growth Hub team to find out exactly how their development could be supported.
Alongside this, organisations can also find out about a range of upcoming business support events via the Worcestershire Growth Hub’s events calendar.
This events page pulls all of the available business support events being delivered in Worcestershire together into one place, regardless of the organiser, location or style of event.
To contact the Worcestershire Growth Hub team, call 01905 677888 or Email [email protected]
New grant rounds launched in Herefordshire
Herefordshire’s Business Enterprise Fund has opened for two further rounds of applications.
This grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is to enable Herefordshire businesses to increase their productivity and become more resilient through the adoption of new (to the business) technologies and processes.
The new item or asset must create a new process within the business or lead to the adoption of a new technology. This must help to reduce the business's carbon usage directly or can show a wider sustainable environmental benefit.
To apply you will need to submit an expression of interest on the grant web page. The expression of interest will be reviewed and if your project meets the minimum requirement you will be invited to submit a full application with supporting papers.
The full criteria and details about how to apply are available from the Council website.
Still in the news
Expert Marketing Advice For Shropshire’s Small Businesses
Whether you need to revive your social media plan or would like advice on developing your branding techniques, the Marches Growth Hub has organised an event on 16 July, where you can get free, expert advice on marketing and branding; digital marketing strategies and SEO techniques to boost your online presence; PR and communication; and social media strategies.
This in-person, 1-2-1 opportunity is designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking to move their marketing to the next level.
The 45-minute session is fully funded through the Marches Growth Hub Shropshire and is for businesses located in the Shropshire Council area.
Find out more and book your place here.
Stimulating Research & Development and Innovation in Worcestershire
BetaDen, situated at the Malvern Hills Science Park, provides an award-winning platform for technology entrepreneurs, start-ups, and scale-ups to supercharge their route to market and develop next-generation technology at a rapid pace not possible in their usual environments, providing real help for real tech.
Their range of carefully designed support programmes give innovative businesses access to expertise, environment and resources.
Additionally, all BetaDen businesses gain access and exposure to a network of more than 1,300+ industry professionals, academics and investors, which enables them to forge strategic partnerships and invaluable industry links.
Find out more about Betaden’s “Real Help for Real Tech” here.
More news and activity near you
Get in touch
Your FSB Development Manager for Shropshire, Herefordshire & Worcestershire is Mike Goodall. 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: @FSBSrpsHrfsWrcs
- follow us on Facebook: @FSB.Shropshire.Herefordshire.Worcestershire
- connect with me on LinkedIn: Mike Goodall