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WoMENTA and NatWest Join Forces to Empower Aspiring Female Entrepreneurs in Suffolk and Norfolk
- by @inc
- 23-08-2023
WoMENTA and NatWest Join Forces to Empower Aspiring Female Entrepreneurs in Suffolk and Norfolk [Suffolk, Norfolk] — MENTA Business Support, in collaboration with NatWest, is thrilled to announce the launch of a new WoMENTA programme cohort for 2023/24, aimed at supporting and empowering aspiring entrepreneurs across Suffolk and Norfolk. The WoMENTA programme returns in September, and will provide comprehensive business support, including online workshops, 1:1 coaching, and networking events, to women looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journey. The programme of support for women in business will be officially launched at a special event on 12th September, hosted at the prestigious Milsoms Kesgrave Hall in Suffolk. More than 100 aspiring businesswomen will have the opportunity to engage with established female business leaders and benefit from insights shared by a panel of business owners, most of whom participated in the programme last year. They will discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by entrepreneurs in today's business landscape and pass on their top-tips for success. John Neild, COO of MENTA Business Support, expressed his excitement about the new cohort, stating, "At MENTA, we are passionate about fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Suffolk and Norfolk. The WoMENTA programme is a great example of our commitment to providing aspiring female entrepreneurs with the essential tools and knowledge they need to succeed in their ventures. We are delighted to partner with NatWest once more. Their support has been instrumental in making this initiative a reality." Debbie Lewis, Regional EcoSystem Manager for NatWest, East Midlands & East of England, said: "I'm extremely proud that we are working with MENTA Business Support to help it deliver its WoMENTA programme for 2023/2024. "Our own research has already illustrated the value and potential female-led business can offer. This partnership demonstrates NatWest's commitment to bolstering women in businesses, offering valuable opportunities for guidance and growth. We look forward to working closely with MENTA and the entrepreneurs taking part, assisting them as they continue their business journey and making their concepts thrive. "NatWest and MENTA'S shared dedication to foster diversity and enterprise will undoubtedly create a stronger, richer and more vibrant business landscape for Suffolk and Norfolk.” The WoMENTA programme will cover a wide range of topics crucial for business success, such as business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and overcoming common entrepreneurial challenges. Participants will have access to experienced business advisors, providing personalised guidance and mentorship to ensure they are equipped to thrive in their respective industries. An inspiring highlight of the launch event will be a keynote speech from Gina Long MBE. Gina is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, free-lance journalist, mentor to many charities, individuals and a global charity campaigner. Her success story will serve as an example of the potential that lies within each aspiring entrepreneur, inspiring them to realise their dreams and make a lasting impact. Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or have recently started running your own business and you’d like some help and support, WoMENTA welcomes you to join this empowering program. The journey to success begins with taking the leap, and with WoMENTA's guidance and NatWest's support, aspiring female entrepreneurs in Suffolk and Norfolk will be well-equipped to make their mark on the business world. To learn more about the WoMENTA Programme and register for the launch event, visit https://www.menta.org.uk/womenta For more information about how NatWest is supporting entrepreneurs and its Entrepreneur Accelerator Hub click here. With immense gratitude, we thank Milsoms Kesgrave Hall for their generous support, making the WoMENTA launch possible, here at East Suffolk's premier events and hospitality venue. About MENTA Business Support:MENTA is a renowned organization dedicated to providing expert business support and advice to entrepreneurs and small businesses in Suffolk and Norfolk. With a wide range of resources and services, MENTA empowers business owners to achieve their goals and contribute to the economic growth of the region. About NatWest NatWest serves customers in England and Wales, supporting them with their personal, private, and business banking needs. NatWest helps customers at all stages in their lives, from opening student accounts, to buying their first home, setting up a business, and saving for retirement. Alongside a wide range of banking services, NatWest offers businesses specialist sector knowledge in areas such as sustainable energy, commercial property, and technology, as well as access to specialist entrepreneurial support. About Gina Long MBEGina Long MBE is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, free-lance journalist, mentor to many charities, individuals and a global charity campaigner. She was awarded an MBE for services to the charity sector in December 2015. She was made an Honorary Fellow of the University of Suffolk in October 2018. She is an Ambassador and Patron of Ipswich & Suffolk Business Club, Bury St Edmunds Theatre Royal, West Suffolk College and Sarcoma UK. Among her many charitable achievements, she has raised over £7 million. Gina founded one of the first Global Online Auctions, the ‘Ultimate Charity Auction’ which has raised more than £1.8 million since its inception in 2011. Eight years ago, she started her own charitable foundation trust, ‘GeeWizz’, which was a very special, small charity. It closed in March 2023, after great deliberation, in wanting to ‘semi-retire’…… whilst she proudly continues her charity campaigning, voluntary fundraising, mentoring, patron and ambassadorship roles. GeeWizz will forever be incredibly special, it leaves a wonderful legacy having supported so many children and young adults and their families, across Suffolk, who are learning disabled or neurodivergent, have a life-limiting illness or cancer, as well as supporting Sarcoma Cancer research and many capital projects; with financial transparency at the heart of everything the foundation does. In 2020, Gina created and organised the Ed Sheeran ‘Made in Suffolk Legacy Auction’, working closely with John and Imogen Sheeran. A total of £506,000 was raised to fund legacy projects – the redevelopment of a much-need playground at the Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy in Ipswich, which will be completed this summer 2022 and funding the introduction of a specialist nursing team – including learning disability and palliative care nurses and physiotherapists – at the Zest service, run by St Elizabeth Hospice. Prizes were donated by global superstars from the world of music, sport, art, festival events, hospitality, and many organisations. Away from fundraising, she is a successful serial entrepreneur, regularly writes columns and articles, interviewing and championing successful businesses, individuals, celebrities, and entrepreneurs as well as highlighting national and regional charity fundraising achievements and events. She is passionate about Britain’s ‘Food Security’, along with helping nurture and educate children and young adults, helping them see first-hand where food is grown on British Farms…. She is a ‘farmer’s wife’, mother to Sam, Ali and five step-children, their great ‘blended family’, living on the outskirts of Bury St Edmunds with her husband Andrew.
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The Benefits of Co-Working at @Inc.Suffolk, Felixstowe
- by @inc
- 11-08-2023
Embrace Productivity and Community: The Benefits of Co-Working at @Inc.Suffolk, Felixstowe In today's fast-paced and interconnected business world, the traditional 9-to-5 office setup is evolving. Enter co-working spaces, the innovative solution that offers freelancers, entrepreneurs, and creatives the perfect blend of productivity, community, and flexibility. One such gem is @Inc.Suffolk, nestled at 87 Hamilton Road in Felixstowe, a haven for those seeking a dynamic workspace that goes beyond the ordinary.Design-Centric Workspace Fosters Creativity@Inc.Suffolk understands that the environment you work in can greatly impact your creativity and productivity. Stepping into this co-working space, you'll immediately notice the design-focused approach that sets the stage for inspiration. The interiors are thoughtfully crafted to enhance your working experience, creating an atmosphere where ideas flow freely and collaborations are born.A Thriving Community of Like-Minded IndividualsOne of the most captivating aspects of co-working spaces is the sense of community they cultivate. @Inc.Suffolk is no exception. Here, you'll be surrounded by a vibrant community of freelancers, creatives, and entrepreneurs who share your passion for innovation. This collaborative ecosystem presents endless opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and even forge partnerships that can propel your business to new heights.Versatile Spaces for Every NeedWhether you're gearing up for a brainstorming session, need a quiet corner for focused work, or require a dedicated meeting room, @Inc.Suffolk has it all. Breakout meeting spaces, private Zoom rooms, and collaborative workspaces make it effortless to tailor your work environment to your needs. The availability of these versatile spaces ensures that you're equipped to handle whatever your workday throws at you.Unlocking Opportunities with Networking EventsBeyond the daily grind, @Inc.Suffolk recognizes the importance of unwinding and expanding your professional horizons. Regular after-work networking drink events provide the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow co-workers in a relaxed setting. These events foster organic connections that can lead to unexpected partnerships, collaborations, or simply meaningful friendships.Flexible Access for a Balanced Lifestyle@Inc.Suffolk understands that work doesn't always fit neatly within the confines of a 9-to-5 schedule. Members enjoy the perk of 24-hour access, 7 days a week, allowing you to structure your workday around your most productive hours. This flexibility enables a healthy work-life balance, empowering you to maximize your efficiency while still tending to personal commitments.Guiding Newcomers to Co-Working SuccessFor those new to the co-working scene, here are some valuable tips to make the most of your @Inc.Suffolk experience:Dive into the Community: Don't hesitate to introduce yourself and strike up conversations. The co-working community is built on connections.Explore the Spaces: Familiarize yourself with the various work areas. Match your tasks to the right environment to optimize your output.Embrace Flexibility: Experiment with different work hours to identify your most productive periods. Flexibility is a cornerstone of co-working.Attend Events: Join the networking events to meet fellow co-workers. You never know where a casual conversation might lead.Stay Hydrated: With the tempting aroma of great coffee wafting through @Inc.Suffolk, remember to stay hydrated and enjoy the perks.In a world where work is increasingly intertwined with technology and collaboration, co-working spaces like @Inc.Suffolk offer a refreshing and effective approach. The blend of aesthetic workspace, networking opportunities, and flexible schedules sets the stage for a new era of productivity and community. So, why not step into a world where your ideas can flourish, and your work-life balance is truly in your hands?
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Embrace Hassle-Free Networking for Your Micro Business with MENTA
- by @inc
- 08-08-2023
Embrace Hassle-Free Networking for Your Micro Business with MENTA Suffolk networking events return this September In the fast-paced world of micro business ownership, networking has often been viewed as a necessary evil—a chore that diverts precious time and energy from core operations. The anxiety-inducing prospect of navigating a maze of unfamiliar faces and engaging in forced interactions has cast a shadow over this essential tool for success. But fear not, for there's a revolutionary solution on the horizon that is rewriting the rules of networking for micro business owners. Introducing MENTA, the game-changing approach that is turning networking stereotypes on their head and offering a friendly, authentic, and fuss-free alternative.Cracking the Networking Conundrum: A Shift in PerspectiveFor micro business owners, networking can feel like an uphill battle, stealing attention away from what truly matters—running the business. The prevalent stigma, rooted in misconceptions of artificial connections and transactional exchanges, has led many to see networking as an unavoidable burden.Unveiling the Power of Professional NetworksResearch, however, paints an entirely different picture—one that underscores the indispensable benefits of professional networking. Cultivating a robust network can unlock doors to novel opportunities, enrich business acumen, spur innovation, expedite career progression, and elevate one's industry stature. Relationships forged through networking can also elevate work quality and job satisfaction.Enter MENTA Networking: The Paradigm ShiftIn strides MENTA networking—a paradigm shift that stands in stark contrast to conventional notions of networking. MENTA, could mean Meaningful Engagement, Networking, Training, and Action, presents a warm, stress-free, and authentic avenue for micro business owners to flourish and thrive.Meaningful Engagement: Going Beyond Superficial ConnectionsMENTA networking champions meaningful conversations that transcend surface-level introductions and rapid-fire business card exchanges. This approach delves into deeper, more impactful discussions that revolve around shared challenges, aspirations, and values.Networking Sans Fuss: Where Authenticity Reigns SupremeBid farewell to formalities and forced interactions. MENTA events create a laid-back atmosphere where micro business owners can be their genuine selves, fostering connections without the looming pressure to make a lasting impression.Training for Growth: Knowledge as the CornerstoneMENTA's commitment to growth doesn't halt at networking—it extends to comprehensive training sessions designed to sharpen business skills. These sessions empower entrepreneurs with practical knowledge and tools that directly contribute to business expansion.Action-Oriented Approach: Transforming Ideas into RealityMENTA networking isn't confined to mere dialogue—it's about taking concrete action. Collaborations, partnerships, and joint ventures are not only endorsed but actively encouraged, transforming conversations into tangible, fruitful outcomes.Embrace the MENTA Way: A Roadmap to SuccessSo, how can micro business owners integrate the MENTA approach into their networking strategy?Scan for Local Events: Stay attuned to upcoming MENTA networking events in your vicinity, providing an inviting platform to connect with fellow business owners.Be Your Authentic Self: Genuineness is the foundation. Approach conversations with a heartfelt intent to connect, share experiences, and absorb insights.Nurture Relationships: Shift the focus from networking as a means to an end, and instead prioritize cultivating relationships that can bolster your business journey.Participate in Training: Capitalize on the educational opportunities provided by MENTA. Enhancing your skill set can translate to improved decision-making and amplified confidence.Take the Initiative: Don't hesitate to propose collaborations or innovative initiatives. MENTA encourages proactive engagement, which can forge valuable alliances.Micro business owners need not dread networking any longer. MENTA networking ushers in a refreshing and convivial approach, devoid of unnecessary complexities and stress—a perfect match for those who've grown weary of traditional networking norms. By embracing the MENTA ethos, you unlock a realm of prospects, connections, and advancement opportunities, all while remaining true to your values and business ethos. So, why not give it a shot? Your next invaluable connection might be just around the corner.MENTA networking is supported by Jacobs Allen Chartered Accountants and is FREE to attend, Find events and book here.
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Atkins Dellow Victoria Rhodes MNDA run 60 miles in August
- by @inc
- 26-07-2023
Atkins Dellow Victoria Rhodes support run for Motor Neurone Disease Association Atkins Dellow Graphic Designer, Victoria Rhodes is running 60 miles in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association Atkins Dellow Solicitors, a well-recognised firm of solicitors in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk announced that their Graphic Designer, Victoria Rhodes will be taking part in this year’s 60 Mile a Month Challenge in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. She was inspired by ex- professional rugby player, Rob Burrow, who suffers from Motor Neurone Disease as a result of a bad head collision while playing rugby after reading Kevin Sinfield’s autobiography – The Extra Mile. Motor Neurone Disease affects around 5,000 adults across the UK and is a condition where the nerves known as Motor Neurones, found in your brain and spine which tell your muscles what to do, don’t work. Victoria will be running 2 miles every day in August to reach a total of 60 miles in a month and hopes to raise lots of money for the noble cause. As a law firm, Atkins Dellow are in full support of her commitment to the challenge and fundraising campaign. On the topic of why Victoria has chosen to take part in this year’s 60 Miles a Month Challenge in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Victoria said: “Back in May, when I saw Kevin Sinfield carry Rob Burrow over the Leeds Marathon finish line for MNDA, I was completely moved by the strong friendship and determination.” “I followed Kevin Sinfield’s incredible journey and fundraising after reading his autobiography, and thought why can’t I do something to help. I have always enjoyed running and 60 miles in one month felt like the perfect challenge.” For more information about Victoria’s journey or to support her cause, click the link HERE
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Discover MENTA Business Support: Your Gateway to Serviced Business Space in Suffolk
- by @inc
- 24-07-2023
Discover MENTA Business Support: Your Gateway to Serviced Business Space in Suffolk Are you a micro-business owner who has outgrown the confines of a home office? Are you seeking a professional workspace that won't break the bank? Look no further than MENTA Business Support, a leading provider of serviced business space tailored to your needs. With property manager Suzanne Banks at the helm, MENTA is committed to supporting the thriving micro-business communities in Suffolk.The MENTA Advantage: Affordable Business Space with Added BenefitsMENTA offers fully-serviced business units from three strategic hubs nestled in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, Brandon, and Haverhill. When you choose MENTA's business space, you gain access to a host of benefits:Professional Business Address: Impress your clients and partners with a prestigious business address that enhances your company's image.Flexible Terms: Enjoy the ease of in/out terms, ensuring you have the flexibility to adapt to your business's evolving needs.Purpose-Built Business Hub: MENTA's spaces are thoughtfully designed to cater specifically to the needs of entrepreneurs, fostering productivity and collaboration.Join a Thriving Community of EntrepreneursBy opting for MENTA Business Space, you become part of a growing community of like-minded entrepreneurs and businesses. The Bury St Edmunds, Haverhill, and Brandon business hubs act as vibrant ecosystems where ideas flourish, partnerships blossom, and successes are celebrated.Prime Locations in SuffolkMENTA Business Space currently has availability in the following locations:Bury St Edmunds Vision Centre: Embrace the strategic advantage of being situated in Bury St Edmunds, a bustling town with excellent connectivity and access to a diverse customer base.Brandon Business Centre: Set up shop in Brandon, a town surrounded by natural beauty and offering a supportive business environment.Haverhill Business Centre: Nestled in Haverhill, this hub provides an excellent gateway to expanding your business in a well-connected and thriving market.Secure Your Ideal Business SpaceGiven the high demand for MENTA Business Space, units can fill up quickly. To stay ahead and receive timely property alerts, join our waiting list today. Our property team is always available to discuss how our spaces align with your unique business plans and requirements.Contact MENTA Business Support:Email: space@menta.org.ukPhone: 0800 085 5090Take your micro-business to the next level with MENTA Business Support's serviced business space. Embrace the advantages of a professional workspace, join a supportive community, and position your business for success in the vibrant Suffolk region. Start your journey today with MENTA!Discover business spaces with MENTA here https://www.menta.org.uk/business-unitsSuffolk Business spaces We offer a range of fully serviced business and meeting spaces in Haverhill, Brandon, Felixstowe and Bury St Edmunds. Our business hubs offer extra business support, easy in/out terms as well as parking and office support services. The hubs we operate offer you a highly affordable space alternative. The business units from MENTA offer office and storage options as well as meeting and coworking options. www.menta.org.uk
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Join the team in Felixstowe as Inc grows!
- by @inc
- 13-07-2023
Join the team in Felixstowe as Inc grows! The team @Inc are looking for a new team member. As Community Co-Ordinator, you'll engage with self-employed entrepreneurs, capture and communicate their information to the MENTA team.You'll brainstorm ideas, promote the space, organize events, and manage reservations through our app-based system. You'll oversee the hub's atmosphere, equipment, meeting rooms, and kitchen. Report property maintenance issues promptly.Flexibility required for out-of-hours events. You'll enhance user experiences, assist team members, and be the friendly face and voice of the hub. Strong people skills, communication, problem-solving, and multitasking abilities required. Collaborate within the team and support our members. Closing Date July 31 Email suzanne@menta.org.uk to express interest and to obtain further details.
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Social Media is Essential for Start-ups
- by @inc
- 11-07-2023
Social Media is Essential for Start-ups Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and its significance extends to start-up businesses as well. MENTA Business Support, with its start-up training, workshops, advice, and follow-up support, can greatly benefit entrepreneurs in leveraging social media platforms. Here are the key reasons why social media is essential for start-ups: Increased brand visibility: Social media platforms offer a vast audience base, allowing start-ups to reach a wider range of potential customers. By establishing a strong presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, start-ups can increase their brand visibility and awareness. Cost-effective marketing: Compared to traditional marketing methods, social media marketing is relatively inexpensive. Start-ups can create and share content, engage with their audience, and run targeted advertising campaigns at a fraction of the cost of traditional marketing channels. Enhanced customer engagement: Social media enables direct and immediate interaction with customers. Start-ups can engage with their target audience through comments, messages, and polls, fostering a sense of community and loyalty. This engagement helps build brand trust and allows businesses to gather valuable feedback. Competitive advantage: Many start-ups compete with established businesses, and social media levels the playing field. By utilising social media effectively, start-ups can showcase their unique offerings, differentiate themselves from competitors, and carve out a distinct identity in the market. Data-driven insights: Social media platforms provide valuable analytics and insights into audience demographics, engagement rates, and content performance. Start-ups can leverage these insights to refine their marketing strategies, target specific customer segments, and optimise their content for better results. Networking opportunities: Social media connects entrepreneurs with industry influencers, potential partners, and mentors. Start-ups can build relationships, collaborate, and learn from experienced professionals through online communities and networking platforms. See MENTA networking events Events For New & Established Business Owners - MENTA We run free business events throughout Norfolk and Suffolk for business owners. Visit our website to find our next event near you. www.menta.org.uk Scalability and growth: Social media allows start-ups to scale their business by attracting new customers, expanding their reach, and driving sales. With the right strategies and consistent efforts, start-ups can use social media as a catalyst for rapid growth. Social media plays a crucial role in the success of start-up businesses. MENTA Business Support's comprehensive start-up training, workshops, advice, and follow-up support can equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage social media effectively, ultimately boosting their chances of success in the competitive business landscape. See MENTA Start-up support options HERE. Business Start-up Training - MENTA are delivering free self employment and new business training in Suffolk and Norfolk Start a new business idea with MENTA across Norfolk and Suffolk, our 5* support helps hundreds of people each year. Are you looking to earn more money by having a new extra job or maybe you want to start a new business and become your own boss? We can help with either plan you have by giving you free support, training, business plans and start-up new business loans or grants. We deliver this service in Norwich, Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Haverhill, Felixstowe, and Cromer. Wherever you are in Norfolk or Suffolk, enjoy the highest rated and most comprehensive new business and self-employment support service. This is fully funded and free to you. www.menta.org.uk
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- by @inc
- 30-06-2023
Announcing 'Love Felixstowe': A 6-Day Celebration of Community, Culture, and Cycling! Felixstowe BID, Felixstowe Town Council, and East Suffolk Council are thrilled to join hands in presenting the highly anticipated 'Love Felixstowe' event—a 6-day extravaganza celebrating the vibrant spirit of our town and showcasing its remarkable local businesses to both the community and visitors alike. The culmination of this grand celebration will be the arrival of stage five of the prestigious Tour of Britain, featuring some of the world's finest male cyclists, on Thursday, September 7th.From September 2nd to 4th, Love Felixstowe will captivate all with a dynamic weekend programme of events, spanning the High Street, promenade, and various local venues. Prepare to be delighted as Felixstowe comes alive with an array of street entertainers, including talented jugglers and musicians. Stroll through the Beachside Events area, where an information marquee will be bustling with workshops and various exciting activities like bike workshops and a pop-up photo booth. In response to popular demand, the Outdoor Cinema makes its triumphant return. Cllr Katie Graham, East Suffolk Council's cabinet member for Communities, Leisure, and Tourism, shares our excitement for the But that's not all! On Tuesday, September 5th, and Wednesday, September 6th, the focus will shift towards businesses. Thanks to the support of MENTA and @Inc, engaging Pop in & Learn events centered around micro business support and local organizations will take place, fostering networking and information exchange throughout the town.The grand culmination of Love Felixstowe will be on Thursday, September 7th, with the arrival of the illustrious Tour of Britain. To celebrate this momentous occasion, the finish line will host an exhilarating business challenge alongside a thrilling 10km community bike ride. Additionally, the Tour Village will be a hub of excitement, providing essential information, fun activities, and the chance to interact with representatives from Tour of Britain sponsors.Aspiring entertainers and suppliers should email leisure@eastsuffolk.gov.uk for more information or to register your interest in participating in this fantastic event.One of the highlights of MENTA's preparations is the Cyber Crime Escape Room hosted @Inc. This event offers local businesses a unique opportunity to enhance their understanding of cybersecurity threats and strategies. Participants will engage in interactive scenarios and puzzles, learning how to protect their businesses from cybercrime. By providing this immersive experience, MENTA aims to empower businesses in Felixstowe with the knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard their digital assets.The Cyber Escape room event is free to attend and is taking place @Inc.Suffolk , 87 Hamiliton Road, Wednesday 6th September 7th 12.30- 3pm BOOK Additionally, MENTA is offering free places with a Pop in & Learn event focused on Smartphone Video Content for micro businesses. Recognizing the growing significance of video marketing in today's digital landscape, these sessions offer valuable insights into creating impactful video content using smartphones. Micro businesses will learn practical techniques for filming, editing, and optimizing videos for various platforms, enabling them to effectively engage with their target audience and enhance their online presence.The Smartphone video content training event is free to attend and is taking place @Inc.Suffolk , 87 Hamilton Road, Wednesday 6th September 10-12 noon.BOOK
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- by @inc
- 20-06-2023
CYBER ATTACK ROOMS Head to @Inc and MENTA Business HubsAs part of the West Suffolk Business Festival 2023, both MENTA and @Inc.Suffolk have teamed up with the Norfolk & Suffolk Cybercrime unit to invite you to step into the shoes of a detective and race against time to solve a case.We have Escape Room events in Haverhill, Brandon and Bury St EdmundsOur escape room will test your knowledge, problem solving skills and teamwork. The escape room is a fun way to help participants understand how their Cyber security and digital footprint could put them at risk, the session concludes by highlighting key cyber threats to local business and highlighting useful national approved resources to help you improve your companies resilience to cyber-attacks.Workshop overview:Workshops normally combine a number of the different elements we offer (see attached flyer), for example a recent business networking session included: Introduction (10 minutes)Cyber Escape Room (40 minutes)Debrief and general business cyber awareness (40 mins) The session includes basic introduction to the following threat areas:· Social engineering· Phishing· Account compromise / business email compromise· RansomwareIt then provided mitigation strategies to help individuals and businesses provide resilience against these threats, highlighted nationally approved and freely accessible resources like the National Cyber Security Centres Cyber Aware Action Plan, The Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre and Police Cyber Alarm. Case studies and local examples are used to give context to the attacks.Have you considered your personal and company cyber security risk? We use technology for lots of everyday functions but is your technology and/or your digital behaviours leaving you vulnerable to becoming a victim of cybercrime? This session will highlight some basic threats to individuals and businesses and help you become better protected against cybercrime.BOOK HEREhttps://store.menta.org.uk/products/cyber-escape-rooms-west-suffolk-business-festival
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NatWest Accelerator is now OPEN for applications for the September cohort
- by @inc
- 15-06-2023
NatWest Accelerator is now OPEN for applications for the September cohort Enterprise is an area that clearly defines NatWest. As the UK’s biggest bank for business, we understand that SMEs are the lifeblood of the economy and that we have a responsibility to help them build back better.At the heart of our support for business owners is our comprehensive Accelerator programme including coaching, insight and mentoring specifically designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs who want to grow their business, regardless of geographic location or sector.We provide successful applicants with wrap-around care, thought leadership, connectivity and access to our shared workspace (in 14 UK locations or an entirely digital journey); all crucial for their success and a strong national economy.We know that every business owner is different and that the motivations for scaling a business can vary greatly. We also recognise the power of being surrounded by a network of likeminded individuals and specialists. Developed over the past seven years, these programmes have revolutionised the way we support entrepreneurs, and has proven to really work. Timeline:The programme starts with an IGNITION event w/c September 11th 2023 and extends over six months with fortnightly events, opportunities and monthly 121, peer to peer and group coaching sessions.There is an option to reapply for up to 18 months of support in total, with the first six months open to non-banked customers.Applications for this intake will close August 18th, interviews will take place throughout the entire application window. Places are limited. Applications:Ready to apply? Click this link, register, then complete the short application form. Please see our website for eligibility criteria, terms and conditions. Find out more: We understand that prospective applicants may have questions, want to better understand what’s on offer and meet the team, so we have created some virtual Application Discovery Events that can be found here. Plus you can request a 121 call with your local enterprise manager Ricke Williams by emailing ricke.williams@natwest.com or pop along to our Petty Cury Enterprise Space and meet events manager Andy Bishop; both of whom will be happy to help.