23rd October 2010
Business Roadshows
Entrepreneurs gained invaluable advice and networked with like minded people at an event at Dornoch run by Business Gateway and Enterprise Europe Scotland.
The Connect, Inspire and Grow road show in the Burghfield Hotel in Dornoch, attracted over 50 existing, new and potential business owners who were all keen to take advantage of the networking opportunity.
Attendees were able to seek specialist help from Business Gateway advisers, but they were also encouraged to interact with one another in order to form partnerships which and in some cases even led to business deals being made.
Speaking at the event were local businessmen Gary Campbell and Mike Ellis, Michelle Wemyss from Enterprise Europe Scotland, Regional Development Officer for Sutherland David Knight and television news reporter Nicola McAlley.
Donald Mackenzie, Services Manager, Business Gateway, Highlands and Moray Office said: "We work extensively across the region and like to get out and about to offer help and assistance to those who are either starting up their own business or want to develop their existing venture, but who maybe don't have a Business Gateway office in their town.
"The Dornoch event was a great success and everyone who went along enjoyed the Question Time session and mini trade fair. The attendees were also really pleased that they could network with other local business owners. Being able to discuss specific business needs with people in the same position as you is a real advantage and this led to a number of significant deals being made at the show. Along with Enterprise Europe Scotland we tailored the event to provide a range of benefits for attendees and are now looking forward to all of the other road shows."
Clive Ward, business owner of Sorbus Rural Services said: "The event was really informative and I can use the knowledge I learned to help my business. Not only was I able to get advice from specialists but I met other people from Sutherland who were also running their own companies. It was great to chat with them and reassuring to discover they face the same challenges as I do. I would highly recommend anyone running a business or thinking of starting one to attend a Business Gateway event like this."
Throughout October and November the series of free road shows throughout Highlands Moray, will address the specific needs of businesses as well as offer a mini trade fair where local businesses can showcase their products and services.
There will be an opportunity for entrepreneurs to share their experience with one another at the Question Time session involving a panel of local business owners who have valuable experience on a regional, national and international level as well as Business Gateway and Enterprise Scotland representatives.
The Road Show will also visit:
Aviemore - Tuesday, October 26th, from 4 p.m to 7 p.m at the Dalfaber Golf & Country Club
Fort William -Thursday, October 28th, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Ben Nevis Distillery
Wick -Thursday, November 4th, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the MacKay's Hotel
Buckie - Thursday, November 11th from 4 p.m to 7 p.m at the Millhouse Hotel
Isle of Skye - Thursday, November 25th from 4 p.m to 7 p.m at the Clan Donald
Inverness - Tuesday, November 30th from 4 p.m to 7 p.m at the Town House.
To book your place at any of the roadshows contact Michelle Wemyss on 01463 715 400 or email enterprise.europe[AT]highland-opportunity.com
Business Gateway provides practical help, advice and support for new and growing businesses throughout Scotland.
To find out exactly what is on offer in your area visit www.bgateway.com/think or call 0845 609 6611. Alternatively contact your local office directly on 01463 713 889