Featured News
Council business loans and grants lever £2.6 million private sector investment
Warwickshire County Council's business loans and grants programme has now supported more than 100 small businesses and, in the process, generated more than £4.5 million for the local economy.
Since its inception in 2015, the loans and grants programme has become a bedrock for small companies across the county.
It has now supported 101 businesses with loans and grants worth more than £1.9 million. These have levered private sector investment of an additional £2.6 million to further stimulate the county's economy.
Together with that private sector investment, the loans and grants are safeguarding and creating jobs in businesses in many sectors in all parts of Warwickshire.
The loans and grants(the former delivered in partnership with Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust) will create an estimated 311 new jobs within the county and safeguard a further 202.
During its first three years the programme has supported a remarkably diverse range of businesses specialising in everything from engineering to distilleries, from IT to earth works and from optical care to campsites.
Comments from business-owners about the loans and grants programme include:
"The whole experience around the support has been superb and the advice first-class."
"Our intention was to employ three people by the end of the year but that has already happened."
"The grant really helped us take the steps we needed to grow our business."
Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property Peter Butlin said: "I am delighted that more than 100 business have now been supported by our loans and grants scheme.
"In Warwickshire we are fortunate to have an amazing breadth of small businesses powered by some fantastic entrepreneurs in so many sectors. The high quality and prosperity of these small business is a big factor in the continuing strength of the county's economy.
"Sometimes, a small business just needs that extra help and support in order to become established and grow and we are proud that, over the last three years, our loans and grants together with our business support programmes have enabled so many to do that with the resultant positive effect on the local economy."
To find out more about the range of support available to grow your business including access to finance, please contact the Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747.
Grant paves the way for latest chapter of ITP's enduring success story
A Rugby-based company which has helped to power the local economy for 40 years is continuing its expansion again - with the support of a Warwickshire County Council small capital grant.
ITP Group is no stranger to innovation. Over four decades they have provided solutions for measurement and styling applications to customers across the UK and in 30 countries over six continents.
The company, based on Clifton Road, Rugby, has a workforce of 43 but that will increase following the purchase of a new laser tracker which keeps them right at the forefront of the technology they need.
Created in 1978 by Dick Turpin, who still runs it today, ITP is a real success story - and is set to go from strength to strength after a small capital grant of just under £20,000 which helped them to buy the laser tracker.
"Our new generation of machines are multi-station, getting larger and more complex with each application," said Dick. "That means that getting the essential accuracy during the build and install periods is challenging. The new laser tracker has really taken us forward as a business and we were able to purchase it sooner rather than later due to the grant.
"The laser tracker saves us time so that we can service clients more efficiently. Importantly, it also shows that we have the very latest technology at our disposal.
"I was speaking to a potential new customer recently and they asked us to demonstrate the technology we use. In our business you have to keep pace and now we can continue to do that and do everything on site.
"The grant was a great help and, as a result, we are in a position to continue our expansion and will be looking to take on further staff this year."
The county council's support for ITP stretched beyond funding as the business also received expert guidance from business support advisor Jagdish Soor as part of the Business Ready Programme.
"Jag has been and continues to be a great help," said Dick."He has a lot of experience and knowledge and was able to get us through all the hoops to access the grant and other potential sources of support."
Jagdish Soor said: "It was a real pleasure working with ITP. During my engagement I was amazed at the wealth of talent of the staff. From initial design, software development, equipment manufacturing and on-site installations, they do it all in-house."
* The advice for the company was delivered as part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme, which is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Warwickshire County Council.
- To find out more about the range of support available to grow your business, please contact the Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747.
Specialist school cafe open for business after Skills for Employment grant
Students at a specialist school have opened a new café to improve their job prospects and cater for nearby businesses thanks to a Skills for Employment grant from Warwickshire County Council.
Café Grange at Exhall Grange Specialist School is open for business after Coventry-based PET-Xi Training helped teachers to successfully apply for a £40,000 Skills for Employment grant.
Warwickshire County Council has been allocated an extra £600,000 for the Skills for Employment Programme for 2018-20. This follows the success of the initial scheme, a £2.4 million programme started in 2015, designed to help businesses tackle skills shortages and enable young people to become work-ready.
Caroline Parkhouse, assistant headteacher (post-16) at Exhall Grange Specialist School said this new initiative would open up career opportunities for students interested in catering and hospitality.
“The café is based in an old school kitchen which hadn’t been used for a long time and had become a storage room so we have been able to use the grant to totally transform the area,” she said.
“We are open during school hours and we are looking at opportunities to supply lunches for nearby businesses at Prologis Park.
“The idea behind the café is to support our students with employment opportunities whether that is through internships, work placements or apprenticeships.
“We are working with Open College Network West Midlands who have written bespoke courses in food hygiene which will be a year-long course where students can study at their own pace. This is an enterprise which we hope will be life-changing for some of our students.”
Year 13 student Heidi Davis said this is the start of a new and fun time for the whole school and surrounding businesses.
She said: “The food we serve is really tasty and all homemade. The café which, until now was unofficially open, is immensely popular.
“I have been working in the café every Monday and some Tuesdays and Thursdays. As I am currently heading towards a career in catering, being in the café has helped me to learn new skills and develop the ones that I already have.
“I see it as a really good opportunity for all the students, whether they want a catering career or not.
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Leader of Warwickshire County Council, said:"The council was particularly pleased to support this fantastic project. We are committed to ensuring that young people with disabilities get the chance to gain valuable work experience and put into practice skills they are developing in their places of learning.
“Currently, only around 15% of people with learning disabilities are employed, yet we know that young people with disabilities are skilled, reliable, and want to work. Our ambition is to establish 100 supported internships across Warwickshire by 2021.
“We are looking to work with around 20 businesses to achieve this in the next three years, so if you are a business and would like to be part of this initiative, please get in touch – we would love to talk to you.”
A supported internship is an unpaid work placement of at least six months where a young person with special education needs or disability, is supported at work by a job coach funded by government.
Businesses interested in finding out more about Warwickshire County Council’s Supported Internships, or any other aspect of the Skills for Employment programmecan visit: skillsforemployment@warwickshire.gov.uk or call 01926418027.
Natasha is shining on her apprenticeship at BFRS
"Employers looking to recruit shouldn’t be blinded by the fact that someone may have learning difficulties or other disabilities. So many people are given these labels yet they have a wealth of qualities which are extremely valuable."
As an administrative assistant at the British Forces Resettlement Services (BFRS), Natasha Hope feels she has found her niche.
Eighteen-year-old Natasha, from Nuneaton, says she has “moderate learning difficulties,” but since starting her apprenticeship at BFRS - a social enterprise created to help the Armed Forces Community with their transition into civilian life - two months ago, she has grown in confidence.
Natasha loves her new job, which includes inputting data, meeting and interacting with clients at events, and adding new jobs to the website of the business based at the Warwickshire County Council-run Centenary Business Centre in Nuneaton.
Natasha, went to Oakwood School Academy, Nuneaton, then at 17, took part in the supported internship* scheme at gas distribution company Cadent, (formerly National Grid) where she gained experience in a range of work areas, plus Entry Level 3 qualifications.
Now happily settled at BFRS, Natasha says: “I love this job, and the people are great! I was nervous to start with - who isn’t when they’re starting a new role? - but within a week I realised there’s nothing to be scared of. I hope at the end of my year’s apprenticeship, I will be able to continue working here. I really enjoy my role and get a great sense of satisfaction from doing my job well.
"More employment opportunities are needed for people with learning disabilities, as well as more awareness in society generally. There is such a wide variety of people with different learning disabilities, we are all individuals with different talents and strengths - just like everyone else.”
Harry Dean, BFRS chief executive says: “I was impressed with Natasha when she came for interview. She spoke with confidence and has a positive, enthusiastic attitude which is infectious.
"We are delighted with Natasha’s progress to date and have found her engaging manner and good people skills a very positive contribution - both within the team, and also with clients when we are at our major recruitment events, where we bring together employers and those who are within two years of leaving the armed forces.
"Natasha also has great computer and data inputting skills, which all together make her a great member of our team."
Harry added: “Employers looking to recruit shouldn’t be blinded by the fact that someone may have learning difficulties or other disabilities. So many people are given these labels yet they have a wealth of qualities which are extremely valuable. Apart from being a great worker, Natasha has brought a really happy, positive atmosphere to the office.”
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Leader of Warwickshire County Council said: “The changing economic climate and the uncertainty of a post-Brexit world, means it’s more important than ever for our businesses to be more creative and flexible when it comes to recruitment.
"Nine of our 11 special schools have pupils aged 16 and above, and increasing numbers of these young people are seeking to enter the workforce. We are committed to ensuring that the skills young people with disabilities are developing in schools and colleges, are used in the workplace."
While Warwickshire is the fastest growing economy of all local authority areas in England, the region isn’t immune from the national skills gap. To address this, Warwickshire County Council recently launched a new campaign, Tackling Skills Shortages, which helps employers address this issue with a range of free practical support, including workshops; expert advice surgeries and tips for businesses to follow.
* A Supported Internship is an unpaid work placement of at least six months where a young person with special education needs or disability, is supported at work by a job coach funded by government."
New MIRA Technology Institute to provide the engineering workforce of the future
"The MTI represents a real step-change in the model for training provision for the automotive sector."
In September a brand new institute of technology will be opening its doors to students wanting to work in the UK automotive sector: MIRA Technology Institute (MTI) will provide training aimed at satisfying the ever-increasing need for specialist skills in the UK automotive industry.
Situated at the MIRA Technology Park at the border of Warwickshire and Leicestershire, MTI is the result of a partnership between lead partner North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, HORIBA MIRA, Coventry University, Loughborough University and the University of Leicester. It received a Local Growth Fund grant of £9.5m from the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) and is backed by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.
The current deficit of technical skills is well documented and engineering firms have long raised concerns over the shortfall. Research undertaken by Engineering UK found that 203,000 people with Level 3+ engineering skills will be needed every year to meet demand through to 2024. Peter Finegold, Head of Education policy at the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (ImechE), has spoken of a mismatch between the skills employers need and those valued by the education system.
In 2016 the government published a green paper outlining its industrial strategy. The development of MTI is aligned with several key proposals in the document including the roll out of new institutes of technology in all regions of the UK to widen provision of technical skills. The paper also includes a desire to see employers step in and help shape educational content.
MTI will offer a wide range of qualifications via its ‘skills escalator’: offering courses from LEVEL 2 apprenticeships to higher and degree level apprenticeships, running up to doctorate level. Courses offered by MTI will be industry lead and the institute will have a focus on disruptive technologies such as electrification and driverless vehicles; where there is currently a big skills shortage. 2,500 students will be taught in the first three years of MTI opening via a bespoke curriculum tailored to the needs of the employer, with both on and off the job training provided.
While engineering skills provides MTI’s bread and butter, students will also be able access non-technical courses suited to business needs including: project management, leadership skills and business development.
Lisa Bingley, Operations Director, said: “The MTI represents a real step-change in the model for training provision for the automotive sector. In the past, access to technical training of this type has been quite fragmented, depending on factors such as skill level, geographical location and industry specialism.
“What is new with MTI, and the reason why we believe this new facility is set to make such an impact, is that all aspects of advanced automotive skills training will now be accessible under one roof, effectively through a single provider. Clients will be able to upskill their workforce seamlessly using our skills escalator. We hope that this will present organisations with a much easier way of future-proofing their training requirements.
“I am very keen to hear from sector employers who would like to get involved in making sure that the training, and the way it is delivered through the MTI, is a good fit with their specific current and future needs.”
More information about MTI, including enrolment, is available via its website: miratechnologyinstitute.com
GrowthPlus Network launched to help businesses sustain growth
"We live in a world of partnership. Groups like this bring businesses together, helping with best practice and forging relationships"
An innovative business support programme has launched a new networking group to help ambitious businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire develop their potential.
The University of Warwick Science Park’s Business Ready programme, delivered in partnership with Warwickshire County Council, hosted the inaugural meeting of the GrowthPlus Network.
Firms who have been helped by the scheme were invited along to the event to see what the group was all about, and how it could help them with their long term plans.
Business Ready advisors selected each firm on the basis they would benefit from meeting like-minded peers and shared expertise.
Janette Pallas, Business Ready programme manager for the University of Warwick Science Park, said the new group was a great way for businesses to learn from each other and help them thrive and grow.
“We have started the GrowthPlus Network specifically for growing companies that Business Ready has given assistance to, but are still aspiring and looking to grow further,” said Janette. “It is these kind of firms, who have ambition for sustained growth and increased capability,that we believe can benefit from this group.
“Bringing people together from many different sectors means that they can share ideas, which may prove useful and encourage peer-group learning.
“I would like to thank everyone who came along to the very first meeting; for their inputs and participation. We look forward to seeing them at our next event and facilitating the opportunities that come along with the group.”
Businesses that participate in the network have the opportunity to meet five times per year, hear from specialist speakers, visit businesses sites, access special high-growth advisors and much more.
The first meeting went ahead at the University of Warwick Science Park’s Warwick Innovation Centre and the keynote speaker for the breakfast event was Cllr Izzi Seccombe, leader of Warwickshire County Council, which co-funds the programme.
“The Business Ready scheme is an extremely valuable tool for businesses throughout Coventry and Warwickshire and that is why Warwickshire County Council helps to fund it and work with the University,” said Izzi.
“We live in a world of partnership. Groups like this bring businesses together, helping with best practice and forging relationships.
“It is extremely positive to see so many companies with ambitions for growth. This group will be vital as we move to further improve the economy of the region.”
The Business Ready programme is being delivered by the University of Warwick Science Park as part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme and is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Warwickshire County Council.
Apprenticeship is the perfect learning pathway for mechanic James
Warwickshire County Council is committed to apprenticeships as a great way of giving young people the skills they need to pursue a chosen career - to the benefit not only of themselves but their employer. James T Wixey, 21, currently serving an apprenticeship in the Warwick workshop of County Fleet Maintenance, reflects on the value of his apprenticeship and the work experience which preceded it.
"I can genuinely say that I have learned something new every day. Most importantly, I have learned the importance of getting the job done right, first time, every time."
I first came to County Fleet Maintenance to get some work experience. A year later a vacancy for an apprentice Vehicle Technician came up - I applied and got the job.
My earlier work experience proved to be very useful, both in terms of preparing me for my interview and giving me a taste of the world of full-time work. I know it's not always easy to get work experience but it's very much worth it as it helps you understand the job and what will be expected of you in the workplace.
That was two years ago. I can't believe it's two years - the time has just flown by. I'm even starting to believe my mum when she says that ''time passes more quickly when you get older!"
On my first day as an apprentice everyone was very welcoming and friendly. My previous work experience helped me know what to expect. I spent my first year working with Scott Smith, senior vehicle technician, with the majority of our work on police vehicles.
From my first day I was learning. Learning about the vehicles and how to service them. I can genuinely say that I have learned something new every day. Most importantly, I have learned the importance of getting the job done right, first time, every time. After a year with Scott I was moved to work with Chris Young, another senior vehicle technician. Chris works on the larger vehicles and buses. The change of mentor gave me exposure to air brakes, air suspension systems and large capacity diesel engines. The work was different but I continued to learn. Again the main theme was the importance of accurately diagnosing problems and getting the repair right first time.
After two years I had completed the formal (college-based) element of my training. I will be awarded with my certificate later this summer. The training has been tough and rigorous but I have enjoyed it. Although my training at college has finished there is still a lot to learn. Within days of finishing my final college session I was made painfully aware of this fact when my manager asked me to replace the clutch and flywheel on a Nissan 4 x 4 - a major complex job on a large, complex vehicle. The scope for mistakes was immense. It was the largest single job I had ever attempted without the direct supervision of my mentor.
For a second or two I felt sick. Was I ready for a job of this complexity? Well it seems I was. Even before I got the vehicle on the ramp I'd been given tips on how best to tackle the job. Although I was now working on my own I was not alone. Everyone was there to help and advise me. Another big lesson was being learned: At work you are part of a team and if one person in the team is allowed to fail then the whole team has failed.
The Nissan job was a success. I was pleased and, although I had the benefit of some good advice, I felt I had proved myself. It was a good feeling. Within a day of finishing the Nissan I was replacing the cylinder head on a Mercedes. The cost of the parts alone exceeded my monthly salary! Spurred on by my success with the Nissan, and with the knowledge that the team were there if I needed help, I complete the task in just over 20 hours and we have charged the customer almost £4,000 plus VAT!
My college education is complete but I'm still on a steep learning curve. In many senses, ''every day is still a school day.'' I'm happy with my choice of career. My colleagues are very supportive and I'm benefiting from getting a great deal of variety in my day to day work.
Upskilling within works wonders for SJG International
A family-run engineering business has improved productivity across its workforce following support from the Warwickshire County Council-backed Skills 4 Growth programme.
Coventry & Warwickshire Skills 4 Growth (CWS4G), part-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) with further funding from Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council, delivers skills support to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership area.
Alcester-based SJG International, with over 40 years’ experience of manufacturing foam conversions and rubber extrusions, has taken advantage of that support to tackle their skills gaps.
The family-run concern has a proud history and is also set for a prosperous future with second generation leaders Robert James and Lucy Simpson who are passionate about keeping the business moving forward to reach its potential.
Justin Conner, production manager at SJG, said: “We turned to Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training for support in identifying skills gaps and were able to access ESF funding through Skills 4 Growth with C&W Chamber Training to help support and improve team skills.
"We enrolled three team members on the ILM Level 2 Award in Leadership and Team Skills and have two more booked on future dates. Guided by Natalie Lane, our account manager, we were able to start making more solid plans for the future of our team and business.”
The ILM Level 2 Award in Leadership and Team Skills is designed for team-leaders and supervisors to develop management skills, enhance team performance and explore leadership styles. It offered the supervisors at SJG some common ground and a frame of reference as well as increased confidence in their own abilities.
The extensive training available from Skills 4 Growth supports individuals to gain accredited full qualifications at Level 2 and below and units of qualifications at Level 3 and above.
For each business an Organisational Training Needs Analysis is conducted to identify skills gaps which may be creating a barrier to growth. A Skills Training Package is then designed to meet those needs.
Warwickshire County Council head of economy & skills Dave Ayton-Hill is delighted that SJG and others have tapped into the guidance available from Skills 4 Growth.
"At a time when skills shortages affect many sectors, it is more important than ever that businesses encourage, nurture and fully exploit skills within their workforce," he said. "The county council is pleased to support the Skills 4 Growth programme as part of our wide-ranging package of support for businesses in tackling skills shortages.
"Upskilling existing employees benefits everybody as the individuals deliver greater value and productivity for the business and also enhance their own careers which helps morale."
The Skills 4 Growth programme is managed by Coventry City Council in partnership with the Coventry &Warwickshire LEP, Coventry & Warwickshire Growth Hub, Warwickshire County Council and other major stakeholders.
Fore more information about Skills 4 Growth please contact anne-marie.tranter@coventry.gov.uk, telephone 02477 719782.
For more details about Warwickshire County Council's range of skills support please visit here.
Sim keen to engage with digital and creative industries in districts and boroughs
A new business group has been formed to help build and champion the digital and creative industries in Coventry and Warwickshire.
The Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership
is keen to build on the growth of creative and digital companies across the region, not least, the digital games cluster in Leamington, so has established the new group to help that happen.
The new CWLEP digital creative group aims to harness the digital expertise within the region and drive forward the Coventry & Warwickshire economy.
Warwickshire County Council Sim Lee is on the group with a role as a bridge between it and local authorities and other groups around the county.
“The group serves as an invaluable platform to feed back updates from around the county to industry and other partners," Sim said. "It is also a great way to swap input into new ideas and projects.
"In addition to this, the group will provide me with a great opportunity to work with the district and boroughs throughout the county on all current topics in this sector.”
Jonathan Browning, chair of the CWLEP, said: “We have companies undertaking cutting-edge work in digital industries and that should be reflected through our structure which shapes the investment decisions we make - all designed to help growth.
“Those companies are spread across a wide range of sectors but we felt it was important to draw them together and harness their capability as a key driver in the area.”
“I am very pleased that the Digital Creative Business Group is chaired by CWLEP board director Sarah Windrum, who is CEO of the Emerald Group, an IT and communications company based in Leamington.”
Sarah is excited by the formation of the new group and believes the nature of digital development means the group is far wider-ranging than others formed by the CWLEP.
“This new group includes representatives from businesses working in geo-spatial mapping, in games development, in digital design, in information technology and manufacturing," Sarah said. "Supported by Economic Development representatives from Coventry City Council, Warwickshire County Council, the CWLEP Growth Hub and the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, we will be able to build better partnership-working with the invaluable academic research and testbed facilities we have at the Universities of Coventry and Warwick which are also represented on the group.”
New partnership with Fires and Rescue Service makes business safer
Businesses can now access a range of advice on how to meet fire safety regulations by entering into a new partnership with Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Midcounties Co-operative recently became the first business to sign a Primary Authority Partnership agreement with the service.
This enables the business to invest with confidence in practices and procedures, knowing that the resources they devote to compliance are well spent.
Talking about the partnership, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Services Station Commander for Fire Protection, Roly Bayley said:
“As a fire and rescue service our priority is to make Warwickshire a safer place to live work and visit. By signing up our first Primary Authority Partnership agreement, this helps us to achieve just that.
"Through this partnership we will have a direct influence on the fire safety of 9,000 employees and 650,000 members of the Society. We now look forward to making a real difference, not only to the business, but most importantly the people who work at and visit Midcounties Co-operative's premises.
"We are hopeful that this will be the first of many Primary Authority partnerships that we will form and are looking forward to working with other businesses.”
Kevin Brown, Midcounties Co-operative Group General Manager for Specialist Services, said: “We’re delighted to be the first business to partner with Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service as part of its Primary Authority Scheme.
"Fire Safety is an area where we need to ensure the highest standards and this scheme allows the society to improve even further its fire safety procedures. This partnership really demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring our sites operate safely protecting our colleagues, members and communities. We look forward to a long and continued relationship with the Authority.”
Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Councillor Andy Crump. said: “I am really pleased that we have our first Primary Authority Partner. Partnerships like this mean that a business is able to invest more easily in fire safety measures, systems and polices in line with their business model. This ensures that they are compliant with the law.
"This helps businesses to invest in safety and will allow them to grow into new areas with confidence. I look forward to seeing how the partnership develops and working with other businesses across Warwickshire as more companies come on board.”
Regardless of size, a business or recognised group of businesses for example trade bodies, franchises and other representative groups with premises in different fire authority areas can request a primary authority partnership.
If you are interested in signing up, then please contact our Fire Protection Department on 01926 423231 or visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/?page_id=1068766
Events
Local business events
August
Meet your Chamber & summer BBQ: Fri 24th Aug, 11:30 - 14:00, Holiday Inn Walsgrave, CV2 2HP (£10)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/meet-your-chamber-summer-bbq/
#FSBConnect Rugby: Fri 24th Aug, 07:00 - 09:00, The Arnold House at Rugby, Elsee Rd, Rugby, CV21 3BA (Free)
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/fsbconnect-rugby-4
Build a brand for your business: Wed 29th Aug, 09:30 - 12:30, Althorpe Enterprise Hub, Althorpe St, Leamington Spa, CV31 2GB (£tbc)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/build-a-brand-for-your-business/
Cheltenham BIG Breakfast Meeting: Fri 31st August, arrive from 7:00am, Queens Hotel (£12.50) http://www.stratford-business-forum.co.uk/catalogue_item.php?catID=13439&prodID=87166
September
Routes to market workshop: Tue 4th Sep, 09:00 - 16:00, Venture House Business Centre, Birmingham Rd, Stratford, CV37 0HR. (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/routes-to-market-workshop-tickets-44254507423
Export Essentials: Tue 4th Sep, 09:00 - 12:30, CW Chamber of Commerce, Cheetah Rd, CV1 2TL (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/export-essentials-coventry-warwickshire-tickets-45340814597
Save money and get more customers: Tues 4th Sept, 9:00-16:00, Venture House, Business Centre, Birmingham Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 0HR (Free) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/save-money-and-get-more-customers-tickets-44254507423
Business essentials for startups - Planning, the lean business canvas: Wed 5th Sep, 10:00 - 13:15, Serious Games Institute, Cheetah Rd, Coventry, CV1 2TL (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-essentials-for-start-ups-planning-the-lean-business-canvas-tickets-48059996744
Wordpress your business: Wed 5th Sep, 09:30 - 16:00, Oxygen Graphics, 33 Albert St, Rugby, CV21 2SQ (£tbc)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/wordpress-your-business-1/
Raising finance for business: Thu 6th Sep, 09:00 - 12:30, Eliot Park Innovation Centre, Nuneaton, CV10 7RH (Free)
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/raising-finance-business-5
CWLEP Growth Hub: Business Support Session: Thurs 6th Sept, 9:00-13:00, The Old Clink, The Holloway, Warwick, CV34 4SJ (Free)
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/cwlep-growth-hub-business-support-session
12@12 Professionals Lunch Stratford: Thurs 6th Sept, 12:00pm-16:00pm, El Greco (£12.50) http://www.stratford-business-forum.co.uk/catalogue_item.php?catID=6761&prodID=58686
LaunchPad: Unique 12 Hour Startup Accelerator and Dragon’s Den Type Session: Fri 7th Sep, 08:00 - 20:00, Serious Games Institute, Puma Way, Coventry, CV1 2TL (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/launchpad-unique-12-hour-startup-accelerator-and-dragons-den-type-session-september-tickets-48058951618
Q3 South Warwickshire Branch: Fri 7th Sep, 08:00 - 09:30, Long Marston Airfield, CV37 8LL (Free)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/q3-south-warwickshire-branch/
Launch your business! Learn what you really need to know - and do: Sat 8th Sept, 08:00-20:00, Ramada Hotel & Suites Coventry, The Butts, Coventry, CV1 3GG (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/launch-your-business-learn-what-you-really-need-to-know-and-do-tickets-48058951618
#Warks Together - September crowdfunding workshop: Tue 11th Sep, 18:30 - 20:00, Royal Shakespeare Company, 22 Southern Ln, Stratford upon Avon, CV37 6BH. (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/warks-together-sept-crowdfunding-workshop-tickets-49140123432?aff=ebapi
Business Data and GDPR Toolkit: Tues 11th Sept, 09:00-16:30, ICentrum, Innovation Birmingham Campus, 6 Holt Street, Birmingham, B7 4BP (Free) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-data-and-gdpr-toolkit-tickets-42497177201
Autodesk Revit for beginners: Wed 12th & Thu 13th Sep, Coventry University Engineering & Computing Building, CV1 2JH (Free)
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/autodesk-revit-beginners-sep-18
Upskilling Staff & Helping Businesses to Grow: Weds 12th Sept, 09:00-13:00, Centenary Business Centre, Hammond Close, Nuneaton, CV11 6RY (Free) https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/upskilling-staff-helping-businesses-grow
12@12 Warwickshires Property Forum Lunch: Thurs 13th Sept, 12:00-14:00, Temperance, 33 Bath Street, Leamington Spa, CV21 3AF (£16.66) http://www.stratford-business-forum.co.uk/catalogue_item.php?catID=13382&prodID=87771
Implementing your social media presence: Thu 13th Sep, 08:30 - 16:00, Holiday Inn Walsgrave, CV2 2HP (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/implementing-your-social-media-presence-tickets-44634007518
Put your social media house in order: Fri 14th Sep, 09:30 - 16:00, CW Chamber of Commerce, Innovation Village, Cheetah Rd West, CV1 2TL. (£tbc)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/put-your-social-media-house-in-order-4/
Midlands Business Expo: Fri 14th Sep, NAEC, Stoneleigh Park, CV8 2LZ (Free)
http://themidlandsbusinessnetwork.co.uk/events/midlands-business-network-september-expo-2018/
Coventry & Warwickshire New and Pre Start Business Event: Fri 14th Sept, 9:30-16:00, Ramada Hotel & Suites Coventry, The Butts, Coventry, CV1 3GG (Free) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/coventry-warwickshire-new-and-prestart-business-event-tickets-48640706663
Q3 Coventry Branch Meeting 2018: Fri 14th Sept, 08:00-9:30, CLM Enterprise Ltd t/a The Welcome Centre, 47 Parkside Street None, CV1 2HG (Free) https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/q3-coventry-branch-meeting-2018/
Technology in Business: Fri 14th Sept, 11:30am-12:30pm, Warwick Hall, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2LZ (Free) http://themidlandsbusinessnetwork.co.uk/events/11-30-12-30-pm-technology-business/
Managing GDPR and other uses of integrated email marketing: Fri 14th Sept, 12:45pm-1:15pm, Warwick Hall, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2LZ (Free) http://themidlandsbusinessnetwork.co.uk/events/12-45-pm-1-15-pm-managing-gdpr-uses-integrated-email-marketing/
Speed Networking:Fri 14th Sept, 1:30-2:30pm, Warwick Hall, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2LZ (Free) http://themidlandsbusinessnetwork.co.uk/events/1-30-pm-2-30-pm-speed-networking/
William the Conqueror 950th Anniversary Ball: Sat 15th Sept, 7:30pm-1:00am, Warwick Castle (£99) https://www.coventry-warwickshire.co.uk/event/william-conqueror-950th-anniversary-ball
Business leaders learning lab with Coventry University: Mon 17th Sep, 08:30 - 11:30, Simulation Centre, Puma Way, CV1 2TT (Free)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/business-leaders-learning-lab-with-coventry-university-sept/
Bank of England panel: Tues 18th Sep, 07:30 - 09:00, Coombe Abbey, Binley, CV3 2AB (Free)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/bank-of-england-panel/
Warwickshire property professionals curry club: Tues 18th Sep, 12:00 - 14:00, Saffron Gold, Warwick, CV34 4DE (£20)
http://www.stratford-business-forum.co.uk/catalogue_item.php?catID=13382&prodID=86959
Getting the most out of your business - SEO and analytics: Tue 18th Sep, 09:30 - 16:00, Althorpe Enterprise Hub, Leamington Spa, CV31 2GB (£tbc)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/getting-the-most-out-of-google-for-your-business-seo-analytics-1/
Website Development for Beginners: Tues 18th Sept, 09:00 - 16:30, The Village Hotel Dudley, DY1 4TB (Free) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/website-development-for-beginners-tickets-48196537140
Introduction to Navisworks for Beginners: Tues 18th - Weds 19th, 9:30-16:00, Coventry University Engineering & Computing Building, Gulson Road, Coventry, CV1 2JH (Free)
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/introduction-navisworks-beginners
CW Champions: Weds 19th Sept, 7:30am-9:30am, St Mary’s Guildhall, Bayley Lane, Coventry, CV1 5RN (Free) https://www.coventry-warwickshire.co.uk/event/cw-champions-19th-september-2018
Midlands Engine creative & design trade mission to China: Wed 19th Sep - Sun 23rd Sep
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/midlands-engine-creative-and-design-trade-mission-china
International trade & customs post brexit: Thu 20th Sep, 09:00 - 11:00, Holiday Inn Kenilworth, CV8 1ED (£25)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/international-trade-customs-post-brexit/
Q3 North Warwickshire Branch: Thu 20th Sep, 08:30 - 10:00, SFB Group, Nuneaton, CV11 6RU (Free)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/q3-north-warwickshire-branch-2018/
Efficient space planning: Thu 20th Sep, Coventry University Engineering & Computing Building, CV1 2JH (Free)
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/efficient-space-planning
Business culture workshops: USA & Canada: Thu 20th Sep, 1 Snow Hill, Queensway, Birmingham B4 6GH (Free)
https://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/event/business-culture-workshops-usa-canada
Q3 Mid Branch - meet your MP Matt Western: Fri 21st Sep, 08:00 - 09:30, Trident Centre, Poisedon Way, Leamington Spa, CV34 6SW (Free)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/q3-mid-warwickshire-branch-2018/
Founders Lunch: Fri 21st Sept, 12:00-14:00, Temperance, Leamington (£10) http://www.leamington-business-forum.co.uk/catalogue_item.php?catID=6823&prodID=59516
HB&O cyber security seminar: Mon 24th Sep, 08:00 - 10:00, Mallory Court, CV33 9QB, (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hbo-cyber-security-seminar-tickets-48269141301
Digital 101: What Don't I know? Tues 25th Sep, 18:00 - 20:00, Leamington Spa Town Hall, Parade, CV32 4AT. (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/digital-101-what-dont-i-know-tickets-49169902502
Digital innovation and product development: Tue 25th Sep, 09:00 - 16:30, Location TBC (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/digital-innovation-and-product-development-tickets-42562853641
Coventry Telegraph Business Awards 2018: Tue 25th Sep, Ricoh Arena, CV6 6GE
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/coventry-telegraph-business-awards-2018/
New product development workshop: Wed 26th Sep, 09:00 - 16:00, Ramada Coventry, CV1 3GG (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/new-product-development-workshop-tickets-42669852678
AEO: how to make a successful application: Thu 27th Sep, 09:00 - 16:30 (from £250)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/aeo-how-to-make-a-successful-application-1/
#CWROCKS business expo: Fri 28th Sep, 10:00 - 15:00, Ricoh Arena, CV6 6GE (Free)
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/cwrocks-business-expo-visitor-registration/
October
HB&O Cyber Security Seminar: Tue 2nd October, 08:00 - 10:00, Coombe Abbey, CV2 2AB, (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hbo-cyber-security-seminar-tickets-48269142304
Finance for non-managers workshop: Tue 2nd Oct, Ramada Coventry, CV1 3GG (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/finance-for-non-finance-managers-workshop-tickets-42670388280
LaunchPad: Unique 12 Hour Startup Accelerator and Dragon’s Den Type Session: Fri 5th Oct, 08:00 - 20:00, Serious Games Institute, Puma Way, Coventry, CV1 2TL (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/launchpad-unique-12-hour-startup-accelerator-and-dragons-den-type-session-october-tickets-48059179299
Cyber security for business: Tue 16th Oct, 09:00 - 16:30, Location TBC (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cyber-security-for-business-tickets-42496796061
Business planning workshop: Thu 25th Oct, 09:00 - 16:00, Ramada Coventry, CV1 3GG (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-planning-workshop-tickets-42670531709
Stratford Business Show: Wed 31st October, Stratford upon Avon College, The Willows North, Alcester Road, CV37 9QR(From £145 to exhibit)
http://www.stratford-business-forum.co.uk/cp3.php
November
Raising finance for business: Tue 20th Nov, 09:00 - 12:30, Warwick Innovation Centre, CV34 6UW (Free)
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/raising-finance-for-business-registration-45965682594
#Pioneer100: Celebrating the achievements of female pioneers, leaders and innovators: Wed 28th Nov, 09:00 - 12:30, Pageant House, Jury Street, Warwick. CV34 4ES (Free)
https://cwbf2018.ticketleap.com/pionerr100-celebrating-the-achievements-of-female-pioneers-lead/details
OTHER USEFUL EVENT PAGES TO FOLLOW
Tech Central: http://techcentraluk.com/events.html
Business Ready: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/business-ready-12629314668
Coventry University Enterprises: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/cue-business-solutions-13651209205
Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce: https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/
Coventry & Warwickshire Growth Hub: http://www.cwgrowthhub.co.uk/events
CW Champions: https://www.coventry-warwickshire.co.uk/events
Midlands Business Network: http://themidlandsbusinessnetwork.co.uk/events/
Leamington Hour: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/leamington-hour-7578817945
Stratford Business Forum: http://www.stratford-business-forum.co.uk/
Leamington Business Forum: http://www.leamington-business-forum.co.uk/