It’s a very difficult time for businesses at the moment but there was a recent event that proved successful with those that attended – online of course – which will hopefully see fortunes change this year.

A virtual Business Support Event held in early December saw 10 local business owners register to attend to get expert advice about the support available to them, including loans of up to £50,000 available from the Development Bank of Wales which can help with start up costs for new businesses or help existing companies expand their operation.

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Organised by the Development Bank of Wales, Wrexham Council’s Business and Investment Team and The Enterprise Hub, attendees received a range of expert business advice about what support is available, from developing business plans to finance, and what happens next in order to help them move forward.

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Alex Baines of the Development Bank of Wales’ Executive Micro Loans section said: “It was brilliant to meet with so many people, who had a wide variety of business ideas and needs. Most of them had a very clear idea of what they wanted to do and it was a pleasure to hear about them and advise on the next steps and I look forward to watching their progress.“

“A breath of fresh air”

Craig Swire, of HelpMeRent.co.uk, said: “Being a small business owner it can feel lonely at times, never mind during the unprecedented year we have all just gone through. To be able to speak to three friendly faces who are proactively supporting small business to thrive is a breath of fresh air. If you are a small business owner in the Wrexham area I strongly recommend you speak to the Business Support Clinic.”

Terry Samuels, of @solocodeuk, emailed following the event: “Thank you for taking the time out to speak with me yesterday, it was great to talk with you all. I was extremely flattered and blown away by the positive comments you all gave me about my business and the plans I have for it. I very much look forward to working with you and Business Wales in the near future.”

“Pave the way for entrepreneurs”

Pete Rogers, Community Manager of the Wrexham Enterprise Hub who supported the event said, “We were thrilled to help support the joint advice clinic which helped provide access to funding information to a wide variety of businesses and will pave the way for these entrepreneurs to contribute to the continuing redevelopment of The Wrexham area.”

Claire Hinchcliffe, who helped organise the event said: “Not only did we provide support, but we also found out useful information from the business community for example, one business had premises available that can easily be used to set up small business units which is something we’re always being asked for.”

More events are planned for the new year so we’ll keep you up to date with when they’re taking place.

If you need any further information please contact Business Support on 01978 667000 or email business@wrexham.gov.uk.

Cllr Terry Evans, Lead Member for Economy and Regeneration said: “The team worked hard to bring this event together and I am really pleased that for many businesses there is light at the end of this tunnel. Most businesses are very resilient and with the proper advice and financial support they will thrive and be ready to build on their hard work in the months and years to come.”