New Business Programme Launched at The Digital Dock
Council hopes initiative will boost the prospects of the co-working space
Helen Reynolds, founder of CPG Executive Consulting addresses Digital Dock launch event
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New Business Programme Launched at The Digital Dock
Council hopes initiative will boost the prospects of the co-working space
A new small-business programme has been launched at the Digital Dock in Brentford.
The enterprise support initiative was unveiled by Hounslow Council’s Deputy leader Councillor Katherine Dunne on 5 October with talks from local partners including Sky, University of West London, Creative Enterprise West, West Thames College, NoStairway Creative and CPG Executive Consulting.
The programme aims to boost business owners’ digital skills, create more collaboration with large businesses across the borough and increase usage of the Digital Dock. The unit offers co-working space for up to 30 workers, dedicated one and two person offices as well as meeting rooms, breakout space and kitchenettes.
The new business support programme will work with start-ups, micro businesses, and small and medium sized enterprises. Support will be provided through live workshops, business drop-in clinics, one-to-one mentoring sessions, networking, peer to peer support – all held at the Digital Dock. Online training is also available 24/7 through the MyGrowthPod platform. In response to the cost-of-living crisis, additional support will be provided on mental health and wellbeing, financial health, and a going green programme to help business owners adopt more sustainable practices. Free art classes and crafting sessions will also be held at the centre.
Digital Dock has been described as a white elephant by some and has already cost the council over £150,000 but reportedly has had an average of just one customer a day. There have been calls for it to be converted into a community centre to support people struggling with higher bills.
The Digital Dock on Brentford High Street
Speaking at the launch event Cllr Dunne said, “It’s never been more important that small businesses access the support they need to navigate these challenging times. We are continuing to develop our varied programmes of support to ensure businesses in the borough can thrive.”
Helen Roberts, founder of CPG Executive Consulting and delivery partner for this programme, said, “The beauty of the Digital Dock Business programme is that it’s a hands-on, practical business support programme, that not only provides advice, but also works with the business owner to implement what they’ve learned to fast track local businesses and firmly establish Brentford on the map as a thriving digital hub.”
To sign up to this free business support programme go to www.mygrowthpod.com/digital-dock.
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October 14, 2022
