Start-up programme for new businesses

Growth Hub running free course for Berkshire entrepreneurs

FOR those who want to be their own boss, the Thames Valley Berkshire Business Growth Hub is running a free business start-up course to help budding entrepreneurs across the county turn their business ideas into reality.

Following the success of its Pre-Accelerator Programme last year, the Growth Hub is again offering Berkshire residents the chance to apply for the five-week fully-funded course, which will equip attendees with the skills and knowledge they need to start their own business.

The programme, which is being delivered virtually for the first time by Enterprise Exchange on behalf of the Growth Hub, includes a mix of half-day workshops and mentoring sessions.

Covering everything from creating a business plan and raising finance to developing sales and marketing strategies, the course culminates in the entrepreneurs pitching their ideas to a panel of experts.

There are only 20 free places available on the programme, which begins on Friday, September 11, and runs every Friday for five weeks.

The deadline for initial applications is midnight on August 17.

Berkshire Growth Hub manager Martin Hall said: “Our Pre-Accelerator course is ideal for anyone looking to start a business for the first time.

“It is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and confidence they need to get their new venture off to the best possible start.

“Through a series of five workshops, attendees receive advice and have the chance to network with fellow entrepreneurs.

“This year, we are excited to be able to deliver our programme entirely online through live workshops and one-to-one mentoring sessions.

“Each attendee will also receive an interactive course workbook to enhance their learning experience.”

Berkshire Growth Hub offers fully-funded, impartial support services and expert one-to-one advice to start-ups and established businesses.

The service includes free clinics and masterclasses on a range of business issues, alongside a special Recovery and Growth Programme to provide intensive tailored support to SMEs.

Delivered by Oxford Innovation, the service is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

For more details and to apply for the Pre-Accelerator Programme, visit www.berkshirebusinesshub.co.uk or call (01344) 388005.