future smiths – devizine.com

The “Business Fit For Future” programme has launched with startups across Wiltshire seizing the opportunity to participate in free online business planning workshops. This initiative aims to support the local economy by providing essential resources and knowledge to early-stage business owners, helping them future-proof their offering.

The programme has already attracted a variety of businesses, including a rural marketing agency, a cosmetics business, a rural café, and a social enterprise supporting older gentlemen in building peer networks.

Online sessions are being delivered by lead programme partners the University of Bath alongside techSPARK Swindon and Wiltshire. The workshops focus on foundational business principles, offering aspiring and established business owners alike the tools to build and refine their business plans.

Andrea Kelly, from the University of Bath Innovation Centre, expressed her enthusiasm for the programme, stating, “It’s exciting to see these workshops get underway. At the University of Bath, we want to support businesses in the region through access to expertise, innovation, and funding, and our partnership with techSPARK and The Future Smiths does just that. We would encourage all aspiring business owners or those considering self-employment to explore the options available to them and make the most of the expertise on offer that will help see their dream become a reality.”

In-person programmes will kick off in Chippenham and Salisbury in October and will run for eight weeks, before moving to Devizes and then Holt. The Future Smiths will be delivering these, and topics covered will include business fundamentals from creating a solid business plan, financial confidence to understanding market dynamics.

All workshops are fully funded by Wiltshire Council and the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund The UK Shared Prosperity Fund provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025.

Aspiring entrepreneurs and local business owners are encouraged to take up the opportunity to enhance their business acumen, ensure success and network with like-minded individuals. To register interest in the upcoming workshops, visit https://www.thefuturesmiths.co.uk/startup

The Future Smiths, a new community-driven organisation set up to advance entrepreneurship and innovation, is proud to announce an exciting initiative aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners in our region….

“Future Forge” Business Growth Programme – January 9th to March 6th

The Future Smiths are inviting applications for their highly anticipated “Future Forge” business growth programme, which will run from January 9th 2024 to March 6^th 2024. This comprehensive programme is designed to offer entrepreneurs and small business owners, offering them the tools, knowledge, and connections to unlock their full potential.

Duncan Robinson and Simone Ward-Baptiste, Co-Founders of The Future Smiths, bring a wealth of expertise to the programme. Their leadership ensures that those one the programme will receive mentorship and insights from individuals who have been at the forefront of innovation and business development in the region.

“As entrepreneurs ourselves, we understand the challenges and opportunities that come with building and scaling a business,” said Simone Ward-Baptiste, Co-Founder of The Future Smiths. “We are dedicated to supporting local businesses and creating an ecosystem where collaboration and innovation thrive.”

The Future Forge programme is tailored for startups, early-stage businesses, small business owners, and ambitious individuals eager to make a significant impact in their respective industries. Participants can expect a comprehensive curriculum covering essential topics such as brand strategy, marketing, and financial management, providing them with actionable insights and practical tools.

“At The Future Smiths, we believe in the power of community, collaboration, and innovation,” said Duncan: “The Future Forge programme reflects our commitment to providing entrepreneurs in the area with the resources they need to thrive.”

To learn more about The Future Smiths, register for networking events, and apply for the “Future Forge” programme, visit www.thefuturesmiths.co.uk/ .Limited spaces are available, so interested individuals are encouraged to apply early.