Partner Article

Fair set to inspire enterprise in County Durham

Some of the North East’s leading support agencies are joining forces to encourage and inspire people living in County Durham to take the first steps to setting up a business.

The Derwentside Enterprise Fair, which is taking place today at The Lamplight Arts Centre, Stanley, is aimed at helping local people set up their own business.

Entrepreneurs Sadie ‘the bra lady’ Ayton and Sarah Pittendrigh will be guest speakers at the event, organised by the County Durham Economic Partnership and Jobcentre Plus, with some of the North East’s leading support agencies.

Elliott Patterson, programme manager at Be Enterprising, one of the organisations involved in the fair, said: “During this economic recession many organisations and agencies are working together to try and combat redundancy. Economic recovery depends on jobs and we need to make sure that the right information and opportunities are made available to people within the region. Events like this help to draw together the resources of many key organisations under one roof, creating a one-stop-shop of information.

“We aim to provide some motivation and excitement to kick-start people’s ambitions. Having speakers like Sadie and Sarah will give people a real personal insight into the entrepreneurial journey.”

Bernie Topham, Partnership Manager for Jobcentre Plus added: “Redundancy can be a difficult time. We aim to show people that they have what it takes to run their own business. The enterprise fair and the other events we are currently running highlight the opportunities available and the types of help people can access.

“Anyone coming along to the event will be able to find out everything they need to know about starting a business and the agencies involved will offer support throughout the entire process.”

Anyone looking for further information about the event should email enquiries@businesslinknortheast.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .