In summary
Welcome to the latest news from FSB Sussex. Here you will find details of local business activity and events. You can also follow us on X and Facebook @FSBSussex.
Save the date! Fancy a tour of neighbouring independent businesses, all eager to share their top tips for success? Join us for an exciting event of friendly, in-person networking in the heart of Brighton’s vibrant historic Lanes on 20 November. Booking is open!
Featured news and events
Digital Trade Roadshow
If you want to enhance your understanding of digital trade and stay updated on technological advancements, then the Digital Trade Roadshow is for you.
The event is organised by the Department for Business & Trade and is FREE to attend. It is taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole, Kings Rd, Brighton, BN1 2FU on Wednesday 13 November between 9.30am to 4pm.
Experts from diverse fields will come together to explore the critical elements that drive success in the digital marketplace. You will delve into the transformative role of data analytics, uncovering how advanced insights can optimise supply chains, predict market trends, and refine customer engagement strategies. And you will tackle the growing importance of Artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity, discussing the latest innovations to safeguard digital infrastructure and protect sensitive trade data in an increasingly connected world.
Additionally, building and scaling a global brand will be a key focus, with industry leaders sharing their strategies for maintaining authenticity, navigating cross-cultural challenges, and leveraging digital platforms and social media to create lasting global impact.
Whether you want to network, learn about the latest trends, or refine your business strategies, this conference is designed to equip you with the tools to thrive in the digital trade landscape.
See you in Brighton
Fancy a tour of neighbouring independent businesses, all eager to share their top tips for success?
Join us for an exciting evening of friendly, in-person networking in the heart of Brighton's vibrant historic Lanes! Connect with other local small businesses in a collaborative environment where you can promote your services and support one another.
Wednesday 20 November from 6pm to 8pm
The evening kicks off at Vios Cafe, where you'll enjoy drinks and delicious bites in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. After networking, we'll venture to the Bousham Gallery, showcasing the incredible talents of local artists and makers. Next, we'll visit Paxton and Glew Contemporary Art Gallery, where you'll discover the latest season trends, followed by a stop at &halt which offers a curated selection of contemporary homewares, each with a unique story and a purpose. We'll wrap up our tour at Hugo & Green, the experts in houseplants.
Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your network and inspire your business journey!
In other news
£200,000 funding available, but only until the end of January
If you’re looking to boost your business, £200,000 in grant funding is available—but only for a limited time! Through the fully funded Adur & Worthing Business Support Programme, you can access match-funded grants of up to £3,000. But don’t wait as the application deadline is the end of January 2025, and all projects must be completed by the first week of March.
Here’s how the grant can be used, depending on the programme strand you attend:
- Start-up support (£1,000 match-funded): Use the grant for things like business coaching, marketing initiatives, or joining local business networks.
- Leadership & management (£1,000 match-funded): Invest in leadership training, team development, or business improvements to help you recruit and retain staff.
- Sustainability (£3,000 match-funded): Improve energy efficiency through LED lighting, insulation, or renewable technologies like solar panels.
- Innovation (£3,000 match-funded): Invest in systems and tools to improve business processes, develop products and services, or adapt your business model for future growth.
To qualify for the grant, you MUST enroll in the programme by attending a relevant workshop in your chosen field, as detailed above. This is the first step to unlocking the funding!
Sign up for a workshop in the programme now to secure your eligibility.
Business & IP Centre Start-up Day
Book your place on BIPC’s annual Start-up Day on Tuesday 19 November and turn your brilliant idea into a business.
The day kicks off with The Basics of Self Employment for Startups, perfect for anyone looking to get started on their business journey. Later, find out how the library’s GRANTfinder database is the ideal tool for searching for funding opportunities, followed by an introduction to understanding the essentials of intellectual property (trademarks, patents, designs) for Startups.
The day will close with Relaxed Afternoon Tea Networking (Show & Tell) at 1pm, so whether you're starting or growing your business, pop along and chat about your business journey and inspire newcomers.
Businesses of all stages and sizes are welcome to learn how the BIPC can help businesses, with workshops, talks, networking and more.
Still in the news
New Round of £25,000 Small Business Boost Competition (UK)
Apply by 15 October 2024
The Business Boost Competition is designed to help small businesses bounce back from economic challenges, and boost the chances of new start-ups. The scheme can help those with an idea to start, grow or enhance a small business.
The winner will be awarded a £25,000 grant. The competition is open to UK resident entrepreneurs and business people aged 18 and over. Entrants' businesses must not have an annual turnover exceeding £750,000 or have received over £50,000 in private funding in the past two years (this does not include government grants).
Help to Grow
A management programme to unlock your business potential, 90% funded by the Government, and already taken by more than 100 people at the University of Brighton.
The course supports leaders and senior managers of small and medium-sized businesses via a 12-week programme that can be completed alongside full-time work.
The in-depth curriculum will support you to build your capabilities in leadership, digital adoption, employee engagement, marketing, managing change and finance.
With the extra support of a one-to-one mentor and the group of local business peers, you'll finish with an actionable plan to grow your business.
The course is designed to help your business become more resilient and sustainable in the long-term.
You’ll be supported by an experienced business mentor and taught by experienced academics and practitioners from the University of Brighton who will support you in building capabilities in:
- strategy and innovation
- internationalisation
- vision, mission and values
- organisational design
- efficient operations
- implementing growth plans.
More news and activity near you
- Kent and Medway
- Surrey
- More from FSB South East England
Get in touch
Your FSB Development Manager for Sussex is Alison Turner. 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: @FSBSussex
- follow us on Facebook: @FSB.Official.Sussex