From the 16-22 November, Global Entrepreneurship Week will inspire people everywhere through local, national and global activities designed to help them explore their potential as self-starters and innovators. It’s the world’s largest campaign to promote entrepreneurship. Each year, it plays a critical role in encouraging the next generation of entrepreneurs to consider starting up their own business.
In keeping with this year’s ‘Make It Happen’ theme, Business Gateway Dumfries and Galloway will be hosting various events throughout the region as part of the global initiative, including social media taster events for would-be entrepreneurs and existing businesses to find out how social media channels can be very effective tools for any new or growing business.
Councillor Colin Smyth, Chair of the Council’s Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee, which includes Business Gateway services delivered by Dumfries and Galloway Council says: “Following on from the great success of Dumfries and Galloway Business Week in October, which celebrated and promoted the diversity of businesses in our region, this time we’re going global and promoting social media as an effective business tool to reach global markets, whether you’re an established business or just at the business idea stage”
As well as the workshops, there is also an opportunity to meet a business adviser to discuss your business or business idea after the workshops on a drop in basis without an appointment. The week will also see the launch of a pilot mentoring programme for young entrepreneurs in the region to help them survive the vulnerable early years of trading.
Councillor Smyth went on to say: “Building the local economy is a key Council priority and we now have a dedicated Business Adviser working with young entrepreneurs. Ensuring their survival is vital, but as existing mentoring programmes aren’t always appropriate for these young entrepreneurs we’d like to match them with other business people who have been through the business startup process and can provide a listening ear or provide encouragement when it’s needed”
Anybody interested in becoming a volunteer mentor should contact Lindsey Mason, Business Adviser Young Entrepreneurs on 01387 260171 or by email at [email protected].
The social media workshops will be taking place on Monday 16th November in Sanquhar, Tuesday 17th November in Annan, Wednesday 18th November in Stranraer and rounding off with Thursday 19th November in Dumfries. For more details contact Business Gateway on 01387 808738 or book online at www.bgateway.com/local-offices/dumfries-and-galloway/events
