Free business support event

Horsham District Council’s free drop-in business advice sessions are fast becoming must-attend events for anyone thinking about setting up a new business or expanding the business they already have.

The Council staged the second of its free to attend business support events at its offices on Tuesday 18 February, and was delighted with the number of individuals and businesses that attended.

The events are targeted to those who are thinking about starting a new business, have just embarked upon running their own company, or are wanting to expand an existing business, and offer free advice on grants, funding, training and much more.

“I am really pleased that so many local entrepreneurs and fledgling businesses came along to benefit from this event and all the free advice on offer.

Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for the Local Economy Cllr Paul Clarke

“We had plenty of specialists on hand on the day to provide answers to the many and varied questions of all the attendees.

“Anything from planning consents required, operating licences that may be needed, how to dispose of commercial waste, to funding, free training and grants available – all were areas where we provided advice.

“Helping local businesses to grow is one of our key priorities as a council as it does so much to develop our local economy.

“Our thanks go out also to the many business organisation exhibitors who helped support our event.”

Services in attendance from Horsham District Council:

• Economic Development
• Planning Development
• Building Control
• Strategic Planning
• Waste and Recycling
• Environmental Health
• Licensing
• Business Rates

Other business organisation exhibitors:

• Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
• Optivo - an ERD funded charity offering free training courses for anyone wishing to start their own business, or become self-employed.
• Department of Work and Pensions
• University of Chichester Business School (Business Hothouse Project)
• Sustainable Business Partnership
• Kinder Living – helping you run your business more sustainably
• Horsham and Billingshurst Chamber of Commerce
• Coast to Capital
• ByJove Media

For more information and support for business, check out the Think Horsham District website.