Many businesses whether new or established often struggle to know where to go for help. Harrogate Borough Council has recently launched a free business support and mentoring service in partnership with Harrogate College as an extension to the college’s Enterprise Gateway initiative.
Enterprise Mentor, Nigel Dakin, has been taken on by the college to work part time with students. As part of this partnership arrangement with the council, Nigel’s remit has been extended so that he can also offer free support and mentoring to local businesses which have been trading for up to three years or for those wishing to set up a new business.
The Enterprise Gateway offers the opportunity to discuss business ideas. Funding options, how to write a business or marketing plan, finding and keeping customers, managing money and profit margins are just a few of the things on offer. All free of charge.
Councillor Richard Cooper, the council’s Cabinet Member for Planning, Transport and Economic Development, fully supports this initiative. He said:
The council always looks at new and innovative ways of providing support for businesses – particularly small businesses and start-ups. This joint initiative with Harrogate College provides that support and will help us remove those barriers to businesses starting here, moving here and growing here.
In the last two years Nigel Dakin has worked with over 100 start-up businesses and many of them have now started trading successfully.
Nigel Dakin added:
Having started my own business and running it successfully, I am keen to share my experiences and knowledge with others. I am delighted to have the opportunity to work as part of this joint initiative in a role where I can engage with the next generation of entrepreneurs.
To book a free one to one appointment at the Enterprise Gateway email: enterprisegateway@harrogate.ac.uk or to contact the council’s Business Development Officer business@harrogate.gov.uk for more information about support for businesses.
Hi,
I have been running my own business for over two decades whilst bringing up my family. My family are now growing up and I would like to move the business forward and increase my income. I would also like to help writing a business plan and talking over ideas.
Kind regards
Lisa Hall