Reaching out to the next generation in business

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce welcomed 28 new faces last week as they launched the eagerly anticipated Future Chamber initiative.

The new concept provides free enterprise membership in addition to a structured programme of business and personal development activity throughout the year.

As the Ayrshire Chamber celebrated their 70th anniversary in 2017 one of the key areas of focus was to engage with and support a younger audience from across Ayrshire.

President, Graeme McKinstry, said: “Future Chamber focuses on young entrepreneurship and innovation and reflects the chamber’s commitment to the future economic and business growth across Ayrshire.

“This is the first of several initiatives to be introduced by the Chamber which spring from our review of our offering to Ayrshire business and there is much more to follow.”

Future Chamber members will be able to access a new online digital marketplace, attend the extensive range of events and networking opportunities, obtain legal, tax and HR support and have free editorial exposure in the quarterly ‘ Your Business’ magazine.

Stephanie Lynch, one of the new Future Chamber entrepreneurs, said: “I own two beauty and wellbeing establishments in Prestwick and the focus has been to grow over the past few years.

“Although this will continue, Future Chamber is going to support me with personal development objectives and provide the opportunity to be part of something new with like- mined people.”

Chamber CEO, Val Russell, said: “This is a natural progression of some of the work Ayrshire Chamber already does with young people as part of developing the young workforce.

“Ayrshire Young Entrepreneurs exposes young people whilst at school to the possibilities of having their own business.”

To find out more about Future Chamber call 01292 678666 or visit www. ayrshire- chamber. org.