People often describe starting a business as “going it alone”, but the reality is that building a brand is most definitely a team effort. No organisation is an island, and achieving long term success with your start-up will require getting familiar with all that your local community has to offer.
Becoming a firm fixture in your community can cement your business as a household name, but it can be difficult to know where to begin building your reputation. Thankfully, there are plenty of local resources available to new and small businesses, and we’re here to help you navigate them.
Let’s take a look at how you can leverage local resources and find community support for your start-up.
Libraries and community centres
Libraries are good for more than just books. Your local library and community centre may be one of the many that hosts workshops, seminars, and networking events aimed at small businesses and new organisations.
Community centres and libraries also often offer resources like market research databases, business planning tools, and access to business journals and magazines full of useful information.
Networking groups
Networking is a vital tool for any start-up, helping you form bonds that could expand your business horizons. Local networking groups are probably happening right now in your local community, and joining in the fun can give you a chance to meet other entrepreneurs, potential clients and mentors.
Online platforms like local Facebook groups can provide information about events in your area, ensuring you don’t miss out. Engaging in local networking groups can lay the foundations for collaborations, partnership, and advice that can improve your business in the long run.
Universities and colleges
School isn’t just for the youth of today. Many universities and colleges offer resources for start-ups, particularly those bringing about positive change in the education sector.
These opportunities include research, business development programmes, and access to a talented pool of students for project work or internships. Colleges and universities also often boast entrepreneurship centres of innovation hubs that support local businesses through funding opportunities and mentorship.
Chambers of Commerce
Joining your local Chamber of Commerce can open up a whole world of new contacts, colleagues and potential partners. In addition to networking events, chambers offer training sessions, seminars and workshops to help you build valuable connections and gain essential business skills.
Chambers of Commerce also advocate for local businesses, providing a platform for businesses to have a voice in local economic issues and debates.
Local government support
A lot of local councils offer support for small or new businesses, including loans and advisory services. There are often economic development teams within local governments who are dedicated to supporting local startups and providing information on services that may be of help to you. TEDCO delivers some of these programmes for the Councils.
These services include business rates relief, funding opportunities, local enterprise initiatives, and more. Exploring your local council’s website or contacting their business support team can help you uncover a wealth of useful resources.
Mentorship programs
Nobody goes into starting a business with all the knowledge they need already in their head. There is always a learning curve, even for the most experienced entrepreneur, and that’s what makes mentors so invaluable. For new business owners, mentorship programs are essential, matching you with experienced entrepreneurs to provide guidance, support, and advice.
These programs are often run by local business organisations, and can help you avoid common pitfalls and accelerate your business growth.
Online communities
When discussing the importance of community in running a business, it’s important not to forget about online communities and social media. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter and startup forums can connect you with local business communities, provide industry insights, and offer support from fellow entrepreneurs.
Stay up to date about local events, funding opportunities, and business advice by engaging with online platforms.
Start-up support from TEDCO
If you’re in the North East, you can find all the startup support you need at TEDCO Business Support. Thousand of people have experienced our business support, with a wide range of services to help you start, grow, and achieve sustainable business success.
From funding opportunities to networking events to programs providing you with essential business skills and knowledge, TEDCO is here to help.
Get in touch with the team at TEDCO Business Support today and find out how we can support your startup journey. Give us a call on 0191 516 61 02 or drop us an email at hello@tedco.org.