The organisers of Global Entrepreneurship Week have recognised the show that I broadcast on Croydon Radio, to support budding entrepreneurs during Global Entrepreneurship Week, as a ‘high impact’ event.
Global Entrepreneurship Week took place from 12-18 November, with a focus on ‘passing on’ the practical help and support needed by early start-ups and individuals who are considering taking the plunge. The aim was to create a collaborative, local and practical week, which enabled people to learn more about the wealth of support available to entrepreneurs in Croydon and across the UK – vital in a time of continuing economic uncertainty. Events were deemed to be high impact if they met four out of the six high impact criteria outlined by the organisers.
The two-hour live show featured two business experts: Wendy Ager from Get Better Coaching and Norman Pierce from Croydon Business Ventures. Both Wendy and Norman provided listeners with practical advice on all aspects of setting up and running a business, covering topics ranging from cash flow management to the importance of having an online presence. The show also included a panel of social and for-profit business owners from Croydon, each at different stages of running a business, but all open to sharing crucial lessons learned along the way.
Sonia Meggie, founder of Inspirational You; and Nikki Fishman, co-founder and director of The Collage Network, spoke about their social enterprises including the challenges and rewards of running a business that is all about delivering social good. Sarah Akwisombe, co-founder of The Glam Collective; and Andrew Enebe, founder of Solar Donwell, are both in the start-up phase and shared tips on how to fund a new business, attracting new customers and business planning. Saif Bonar, who established Matthews Yard earlier this year, outlined the benefits of co-working and shared key tips on how to outsource work. Simon Bird, co-founder and technical director of dotDigital Group, spoke about his company’s rise from humble beginnings to become one of the Deloitte Fast Track 500 in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, for outstanding revenue and profits growth.
The show is now available to download as a podcast. Do let me know what you think, and save the date for Global Entrepreneurship Week 2013 which takes place from 18-24 November.