A new support and networking group is being launched to help micro-businesses, and those thinking of going into business, in the Weymouth and Portland area.
The group, Bizzy, aims to provide a friendly and supporting networking environment for the many sole traders and very small firms locally, which are often home-based.
The launch event is on Tuesday 27 February at Weymouth College, from 9.30am to 11am.
There will be an opportunity for people to chat and network over tea and coffee, followed by a short presentation by Claire Hyde, talking about her experience of setting up a business. Claire established Quay HR Solutions four years ago, to help organisations and individuals manage issues around the workplace and employment.
Following Claire’s talk there will be the chance to discuss the issues and opportunities facing people who want to set up their own business.
The Bizzy group is backed by Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce.
Andrew Knowles, President of the Chamber, said: “Self-employment and micro-businesses have become much more common, and we have a responsibility to help people succeed in working for themselves. We’re supporting Bizzy because we want to help these small businesses thrive and also encourage those who are considering becoming self-employed.”
Claire Hyde of Quay HR said: “I’m thrilled to be invited to speak at the launch meeting of Bizzy and to help others by sharing some of my own story of starting a local business. Leaving a secure job to work for yourself can be scary, but also hugely rewarding, and I’m looking forward to helping inspire other people who work for themselves.”
The Bizzy group will meet at Weymouth College on the morning of the fourth Tuesday of the month, at a cost of £5 per meeting.
There is no membership fee and it’s open to anyone working in a micro-business (five employees or less) or who is considering a move into self-employment.
For more information search for Bizzy on Eventbrite.com
Additional information:
Growth in self-employment: There has been sustained growth in the total number of businesses, with increases of 2.2m (+64%) since 2000 and 197,000 (+4%) since 2016. The majority of this growth since 2000 has been due to sole traders and director-only companies, which accounted for 89% of the overall increase. (Statistics from Federation of Small Businesses)
Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting local businesses of all sizes. It is a not-for-profit organisation run by a team of volunteers to provide networking, training and support events and activities. Founded in early 1919, the Chamber is celebrating its 100th year of service. For more information: www.wpchamber.co.uk