Tag Archives: enterprise hub

News

Cash prizes up for grabs as leading business hub takes show on the road

CASH investment is up for grabs via an enterprise hub offering free business development sessions to ambitious start-ups and entrepreneurs.

Experts from across the world of business are joining forces with Hwb Menter/Enterprise Hub @M-SParc to share their knowledge, advice and experience with participants from across Conwy county.

The Miwtini programme will be held in Colwyn Bay over two weeks from Monday June 13, featuring workshops on a range of topics including web design, PR, marketing, and customer service.

Those taking part will then be able to pitch their business ideas for investment – £3,000 for the winner and £2,000 for a runner up via the UK Community Renewal Fund.

2021 saw a 14% rise in the number of start-up businesses launched in the UK, with many people deciding to pursue a new career or launch a venture due to the pandemic.

Enterprise Hub Manager Sara Roberts said they want to help people begin their journey to commercial success.

“Miwtini is all about opportunities, providing entrepreneurs and anyone with the spark of an idea the platform to bring it to reality,” she added.

“We have some fantastic guest speakers who know what it takes to start a business and make a success of it, all the different facets to getting your name out there and managing future challenges.

“We have already had positive feedback and a lot of interest so I would encourage people to get in touch and sign up for what will be a very interesting and valuable fully-funded programme.”

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund and takes place over six in-person sessions at the M-SParc #OnTour satellite hub on Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay.

Among the speakers are Denbigh-based ‘Sales Geek’ Aaron Sussex; Martin Williams, Director of Radar PR in St Asaph, and Teresa Carnall, founder of TBC Marketing in Colwyn Bay.

Anna Openshaw, Senior Project Officer for Miwtini, believes joining forces with leading lights in multiple arenas will bring experience and insight to the agenda.

“It will be great to see like-minded people come together with their ideas to share best practice and learn from industry experts,” said Anna.

“For those with concerns about what is next for their business, what the pitfalls are and any questions on how to overcome barriers to success – particularly given the challenges of Covid-19 – this is the perfect place to find solutions.

“Whether it’s a hobby you want to take to the next level or a great big idea that’s going to change the world, we are here for you and confident Miwtini can play a part in helping you move forward with confidence.”

To register, visit Ffurflen Gais Miwtini Application Form (jotform.com) before the June 8 deadline.

For more information on how the Enterprise Hub can help you start-up in business, email post@hwbmenter.cymru or call 01248 858 070.

Alternatively, visit www.hwbmenter.cymru or follow @hwbmenter on social media. 

Local Government, Mental Health

Former Mayor launches new business and clothing range to support people with mental health issues

A FORMER Mayor has launched a new business and clothing range to support people with mental health issues.

Stephen Williams, from Colwyn Bay, hopes CBT (Connect Build Transform) will shine a light on problems faced by businesses and individuals across the UK, notably those impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.

Having qualified this year as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, the 47 year-old has also unveiled the Mind Free Clothing UK range of hoodies and leisurewear, emblazoned with hashtags and messages encouraging positivity.

Supported by Hwb Menter/Enterprise Hub at M-SParc on Anglesey, and in collaboration with Mark Bryant from Fast Way to Fitness in Mochdre, Stephen hopes to be able to help people when they need it most.

Having suffered with his own mental health following the death of his beloved mum Maureen, the former Eirias High School pupil said: “I started the company earlier this year but due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns I’ve had to do everything online, including completion of the qualification.

“Until it is safe to do so I’ll continue holding sessions via video conferencing but have also been able to make strides in developing the clothing brand and CBT in the background.”

He added: “I’ve always been passionate about supporting people with mental health issues, through my role as a councillor and Mayor of the Bay of Colwyn, and in other voluntary roles over the years.

“It will be great to work with Mark, who does so much in mental health, fitness and wellbeing coaching, so I’m excited at what lies ahead and am sure we can help people.

“I’ve been through the tough times myself when my mum died; I felt a change in attitude and experienced some dark times. It’s only when I started to talk that I made the journey out of it, but many of us – especially men – are often too proud to speak about how we feel.”

Mark said the synergy between both organisations made working together a natural next step.

“Health, exercise, and mental health and wellbeing go in hand in hand, so we can support each other with corporate wellness, resilience and training to help people transform their lives,” he said.

“There is still a stigma around stress and depression and even talking about the issues we face, but given the events of this year it’s time to open up and be there for one another.”

Through CBT, Stephen is also planning to hold webinars and podcasts, as well as appearing on local radio station, Bayside.

For more information, visit the website www.cbtnw.co.uk or follow

Visit www.hwbmenter.cymru/en for more on Hwb Menter/Enterprise Hub and support for businesses.