Northumberland business support service, the Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS), continues to bring together businesses from across the county through its networking events.
The networking events are a key staple to the business support service, giving opportunities to businesses of all sizes and sectors the opportunity to come together to connect, collaborate and grow. The welcoming and inclusive environment provides local entrepreneurs, start-ups and established companies the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, share experiences and explore new opportunities.
The Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS) is funded by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority through its Rural Growth Programme and Integrated Settlement, with Northumberland County Council acting as the Lead Delivery Partner, supported by Durham County Council, Gateshead Council, Northumberland National Park Authority, Food and Drink North East Limited, and North East Enterprise Agency.
Recognising the importance of accessible networking opportunities across the county, NSBS provide a series of free events designed to support businesses operating in both rural and urban communities, often hosting events in areas where these kind of opportunities don’t tend to exist. The events are also open to businesses outside of the county. The team run with the mantra – “if you are happy to travel, we are happy to have you”.
The events offer a valuable space for attendees to meet like-minded professionals, exchange ideas and create new partnerships in a relaxed and supportive setting, all the networking events spotlight a guest speaker, which gives opportunities to business owners or other support programmes to promote their services.
The events are a perfect way to meet the team at NSBS including a Business Adviser who is at the event to discuss how the support programme could help, and any other support that may be beneficial to the delegates.
Programme Manager, Lucy Evermore, said: “Our networking events continue to grow in popularity and it’s fantastic to see businesses from so many different sectors coming together. These events provide valuable opportunities to make new connections, share experiences and discover the support available to help businesses thrive across Northumberland.”
Attendees have praised the events for their friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to build genuine relationships with other local business owners and professionals. Many have highlighted the value of connecting with businesses they may not otherwise have met, leading to new collaborations and opportunities.
NSBS offers 3 networking events a month at a minimum at a range of unique venues across Northumberland, including the two permanent and popular monthly meet ups in Hexham and Morpeth. From Norham to Ashington, the team ensure the whole county is covered. Each event aims to provide practical support, inspiration and opportunities for businesses to expand their local networks.
NSBS also offers assistance to businesses across Northumberland. The experienced team and its range of experts work directly with businesses and individuals to help them start, grow, diversify, and sustain their ventures through workshops, 1-2-1 support and networking events across the county. The programme also has a specific support functionality for Food & Drink and Farming businesses in Northumberland.
For more information about the Northumberland Small Business Service, please contact the team at business@ businessnorthumberland.co.uk or visit www.northumberlandsmallbusiness.co.uk