Experts to share tips at business events

Two top experts will share vital tips to help small businesses at the latest meeting of a Shropshire networking group.

Ray Hickinbottom, chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses in Shropshire, and Tracey Flint, from the Marches Growth Hub, are both lined up to talk at this coming Wednesday’s Collaborative Networking Group in Whitchurch.

The group – which has seen a big rise in members in recent months – says the meeting, at the town’s Hill Valley Hotel, will give local businesses crucial information on the funding and support available to them.

Mr Hickinbottom will give a brief history of the FSB and outline the wealth of benefits it can bring to businesses. 

Ms Flint will give details of special one-to-one business clinics being organised in Whitchurch as part of a new initiative. 

The March 1 meeting gets under way at 10am and costs £5. A lunch is available at the end of the meeting at Noon for a further £5.

More details of the group are available at www. collaborativenetworking.co.uk

Meanwhile Moving forward in 2017 – and protecting your business from the growing threat of cyber crime – are two of the key topics of a networking seminar being organised by Barclays for the same day.

The ‘Moving Forward In Business’ seminar is being held on March 1, from 8am, at The Sovereign Suite, Shrewsbury Town FC.

Speakers include Anthony McGhie of Barclays Digital, who will be talking about cyber fraud prevention. 

Sharon Harding, Barclays Business Banking area manager for Shropshire, said: “Following the EU referendum, no one can predict exactly how the market will behave in the months ahead. Finding opportunity in the uncertainty is key. 

“Our aim is to help you consider your options and the potential hurdles you’re likely to face so you have the chance to move forward with more confidence.”

The seminar will look at milestones coming up in the economic landscape, useful tools and sources of information and insight, and key trends to look for nationally and regionally.

Sharon said: “It will also be a great opportunity to meet our team and network with other influential people within the area.  The morning will run from 8am until 10am.”