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September 2011

 

Business start-up and growth advice services head to Killearn

 

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) will be taking its resources to Stirling’s wider community at the Black Bull Hotel in Killearn on Wednesday 5th October from 10am – 4pm.  

The event is free to attend and will offer advice and information throughout the day on everything from learning new skills to starting or expanding a business.  

STEP will also have a selection of partner agencies available including:  

·         ILA Scotland - who can offer up to £200 towards the cost of retraining in a new profession or to brush up on old skills.

·         Job Centre Plus - for information and help for those considering self employment as well as other available services.

·         Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) - for people aged 18-25 who have a business idea. Advice on low interest loans and discretionary grant funding.

·         Atkinson and Co Chartered Accountants - advice on personal finance issues, the best way to set up your business, how to be tax efficient and tax returns.

·         Healthy Working Lives - Free health and safety advice for your existing or future business.

·         HM Revenue & Customs – free advice from a HMRC tax advisor including national insurance, self assessments and expenses among others.

·         Energy Savings Trust – expert advice and support for those looking to save energy and reduce carbon emissions.

·         Interface – connects businesses with Scotland’s Universities and Research Institutes to help solve business challenges.

·         Stirling Voluntary Enterprise – information and support for community groups, voluntary groups and social enterprises.

·         ICASS - information and advice on how to set up a trademark, copyright or patent.

Also available on the day will be a Web Marketing workshop (10am – 12pm). Presented by STEP’s IT and Web Adviser, Graham Lambie, this will cover some of the aspects involved in marketing a website to increase traffic and sales for an online business. There are a limited number of spaces available on the workshop and these should be booked in advance.

To register your interest or for more information please contact James Buchanan at Stirling Enterprise (STEP) on Tel: 01786 463 416 or Email: jbuchanan@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

 

August 2011

 

Business Advice Taken To The Doorstep Of Northern Stirlingshire

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) will be taking its resources to Stirling District’s most Northern areas with a business roadshow at the Tyndrum Village Hall in Tyndrum on Wednesday 7th September from 10.30am – 3.30pm.  

The event is free to attend and is open to anyone who is looking into the possibility of starting a business, those who are looking to grow their existing business and businesses looking for across the board IT advice. One-to-one appointments with STEP’s experienced business and IT advisers will be available throughout the day.  

Information will also be available on the new Sustainable Tourism Business Grant Scheme which covers all of rural Forth Valley, including Tyndrum, Crianlarich and Killin, with match funding of up to £10,000 available for eligible businesses.  

Appointment slots for business advisers are on a first come first serve basis and should be booked in advance although a drop in service will also be in operation on the day.  

For more information or to book a place at the event, please contact James Buchanan at Stirling Enterprise (STEP) on Tel: 01786 463 416 or Email: jbuchanan@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

 

June 2011

 

BUSINESS START-UP AND GROWTH ADVICE SERVICES HEAD TO DUNBLANE

 

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) will be taking its resources to Stirling’s wider community at the Westlands Hotel in Dunblane on Friday 17th June from 10am – 4pm.

 The event is free to attend and will offer advice and information throughout the day on everything from learning new skills to starting or expanding a business.

STEP will also have a selection of partner agencies available including:

ILA Scotland - who can offer up to £200 towards the cost of retraining in a new profession or to brush up on old skills.

Job Centre Plus - for information and help for those considering self employment.

Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) - for people aged 18-25 who have a business idea. Advice on low interest loans and discretionary grant funding.

MacFarlane Gray Chartered Accountants - advice on personal finance issues, the best way to set up your business, how to be tax efficient and tax returns.

Healthy Working Lives - Free health and safety advice for your existing or future business.

HM Revenue & Customs – free advice from a HMRC tax advisor including national insurance, self assessments and expenses among others.

Energy Savings Trust – expert advice support for those looking to save energy and reduce carbon emissions

Interface – connects businesses with Scotland’s Universities and Research Institutes to help solve business challenges

Stirling Council Tourism Executive – advice on quality assurance schemes and green sustainable tourism. A small grant scheme is also available to collaborative local tourism projects. 

Also available on the day will be a workshop entitled ‘What you need to know before starting your own website’(10am – 12pm). Presented by STEP’s IT and Web Adviser, this will cover the basics and essentials needed before starting your own website. There are a limited number of spaces available on the workshop and these should be booked in advance. 

To register your interest or for more information please contact James Buchanan at Stirling Enterprise (STEP) on Tel: 01786 463 416 or Email: jbuchanan@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

 

June 2011

 

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM GRANT SCHEME TOPS THE LEADER BOARD

 

Stirling Enterprise Rural Business Adviser Sandy Slater with Sue Wyllie, Development Officer with Forth Valley & Lomond Leader

 

Sustainable tourism projects in rural Stirling District are set to benefit from a share of a £150,000 cash boost thanks to an innovative grant scheme designed by Stirling Enterprise. The award is one of the largest made by Forth Valley and Lomond LEADER, reflecting the potential for the scheme to deliver LEADER aims.

The 1-year pilot initiative aimed at new and expanding sustainable tourism projects and with grant giving powers won the approval of the Forth Valley and Lomond LEADER programme in its April 2011 funding round.

Stirling Enterprise (STEP), who developed the innovative new rural grant scheme, will be responsible for assisting businesses and social enterprises through the application stage.

Businesses with sustainable tourism ambitions can apply for a grant of up to £10,000 (or 50% of costs, whichever is bigger) for projects that show community benefit and support.

There will be four funding panels held in the scheme’s 12-month duration, with the LEADER Local Action Group (LAG) having the final say on whether short-listed projects receive grant support.   

Sandy Slater, STEP Rural Business Adviser, welcomed the news and commented:  “STEP is delighted to have secured the approval of Forth Valley and Lomond LEADER  and the funds to introduce, what we feel, will be a very worthwhile scheme.  We recognised early on that it would not be an easy decision for the LAG to take.  Our rural businesses are not traditionally thought to be drivers of community or environmental benefit. The motivating factor was to challenge that belief and to explore the capacity for our rural tourism businesses to embrace set social and environmental outcomes in tandem with economic objectives. Our view is that our small tourism businesses are an integral and essential part of the fabric of community life”

When devising the grant scheme, STEP was conscious of the need to keep the application steps as user-friendly and straightforward as possible.  Sandy continued “We want to bring to the fore adviser input and timely decision making to provide support specifically for small businesses in the tourism sector.  Our message to local tourism businesses with potential projects in the pipeline is to come forward and speak to us at the earliest opportunity, discuss your plans with us and let us guide you as to whether the project is a good fit with this scheme.”

Anne Michelle Ketteridge, Forth Valley & Lomond LEADER Programme Manager commented:  “Current thinking on sustainability acknowledges that a thriving community is an integral part of a good quality tourist destination. We believe that the combination of these LEADER funds, STEP’s enterprise expertise and local business enthusiasm, will combine to make a step change in the sustainable character of the tourism product across rural Clacks, rural Stirling, rural Falkirk and the part of West Dunbartonshire within the National Park.” 

To view our promotional flyer please click here.

 

April 2011

 

LOCAL TRUST STEPS IN WITH NEW HELPLINE SERVICE

 

Stirling district residents facing job uncertainty or redundancy have been thrown a lifeline from the 4th April thanks to the launch of a new confidential helpline service.

New Direction, an initiative devised by Stirling Enterprise (STEP), enables those with concerns around job security to explore self-employment and to formulate their own career contingency plan.

Helpline users have the option to link in to the STEP business advisory team either by telephone

or e-mail.  Confidentiality is assured to all users of the service whatever their employment situation or status

The helpline enables enquirers to take stock of their current situation, to assess their capabilities and to consider the options. Those affected needn’t have a set business idea firmly in mind to utilise the service. 

STEP’s position as a Learn Direct Accredited training centre means that advice can also be offered on ILA funding to help people re-train - if appropriate - for a different career path.

STEP Executive Director, Derek Gavin commented:  “There are Council-led initiatives such as PACE that a company will bring in to assist with high-level redundancy situations.  STEP, in fact, plays a part of that multi-agency support offering.  However, we recognise that when the prospect of redundancy transforms from being a possibility to a reality, people are often shell shocked.  It can take a good six weeks or longer before the dust finally settles and people start to consider next step options.  In the case of smaller scale redundancies, where a business is perhaps letting one or two people go and the PACE service is not active, employees have no immediate support mechanism to plug in to.” 

“The motivation behind this confidential support service, is to pre-empt this scenario, to give people a chance to consider and weigh up the option of self-employment or re-training while the choice is in their hands and they are in a more positive, clear-thinking frame of mind.    

“Redundancy needn’t be the end of the world.  At the time, it can be frightening and daunting, but for many people, it can be the change that takes their career in an entirely new direction”.   

The New Direction Confidential Helpline Service is available Monday to Friday from 9am till 5pm.  Get in touch by contacting Tel: 01786 463416 quoting CHANGE or E-mail: support@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

 

April 2011

 

DRYMEN BECOMES BUSINESS HUB FOR THE DAY

 

 

An exciting and insightful afternoon was had by all on Thursday 17th March, when 33 aspiring and exisiting business people attended a Business Roadshow event organised by Stirling Enterprise (STEP).

Held at the Winnock Hotel, the Drymen Roadshow event was aimed at advising enterprising locals in both setting up and developing their businesses.

There was a good turn out by people from across the West of Stirlingshire with a healthy number of appointments and drop-ins not just for STEP’s business and IT advisers but also with local accountants Macfarlane Gray, Princes’ Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT), HM Revenue & Customs, Healthy Working Lives, DSL Business Finance, ILA Scotland and Innovators Counselling and Advisory Service for Scotland (ICASS).

(STEP and partner agency staff with Councillor Paul Owens (third from right))

 

The day kicked off with a workshop delivered by Jane Lindsey from Snapdragon entitled ‘Facebook & Twitter – How To Build Business Through Social Media’. This showed a room full of local business people how to set up their social media accounts and how to fine tune their approach to social media for their own business. Following on in the afternoon was a second workshop entitled ‘Being An Entrepreneur – The Toolkit Required’, presented by Wendy Chalmers Mill of Positive Performance.

Facebook & Twitter course attendee Yvonne Ford, owner of the Mulberry Lodge, commented, ‘For me the concept of social media was a bit of a step into the unknown. Now that I have been shown how to set up my social media accounts and been advised on how to get the best out of them, I am sure that they will be a very useful tool for my business in the future’.

 

March 2011

 

BUSINESS ROADSHOW ROLLS IN TO HELP LOCAL BUSINESSES BLOSSOM

 

Entrepreneurs in West Stirlingshire will be able to access invaluable help and advice at a unique business roadshow designed to help their business ideas grow and blossom.

The Drymen Business Roadshow, which takes place on March 17th, has been organised by Business Gateway, Stirling, and aims to provide attendees with all they need to know about setting up and expanding a successful company.

Based in the Winnock Hotel, Drymen, the event – which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – will provide people with an opportunity to not only meet business advisers but learn all about social media and how to communicate in business.

Also on hand, to give advice on everything from finance and funding to Health & Safety, will be a range of specialist agencies including: Healthy Working Lives, MacFarlane Gray Chartered Accountants, DSL Business Finance, Princes Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT), HMRC, and Innovators' Counselling and Advisory Service for Scotland (ICASS).

Sandy Slater, Rural Business Adviser, Business Gateway said: "The roadshow is part of an

on-going programme of events organised to ensure entrepreneurs located in rural areas have easy access to a wide range of information that will help their business ideas grow.

 We understand that rural enterprises can have different needs to those based in a city centre and the roadshow will address the various issues that they face in a day to day basis.”

From 10am – 1pm Drymen-based business owner Jane Lindsey of Snapdragon will unravel the myths of social media, help delegates create their own Facebook and Twitter accounts and speak about how her company has benefited from social media – in the past year 30% of new business has been generated by Snapdragon’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

And from 2pm – 4pm attendees will pick up hints and tips from Wendy Chalmers Mills, of Positive Performance, on how to communicate clearly and utilise body language to convey the correct message during her ‘Being an Entrepreneur – The Toolkit required’ presentation.

Business Gateway advisers will also be on hand throughout the day to give one-to-one advice on starting and growing a business in a rural location as well as helping with web and other IT issues.

Lynne Seaton, owner, My Baboo, based in Balfron said: “A rural location is no longer a barrier to business success. Being based in Balfron has provided me with a better work/life balance as well as a network of support that I wouldn’t have found in a city location. The information on offer at the roadshow is pertinent to all businesses, particularly the presentation on social media which is fast becoming a business’s most important selling tool. Over the years Business Gateway has provided me with helpful advice and I would encourage anyone looking to set up or grow their own business to visit the roadshow.”

To find out more about the Drymen Business Roadshow call Business Gateway, Stirling on 01786 463416 or visit www.bgateway.com

 

February 2011

 

‘SUPPORTING BUSINESS, SUPPORTING RECOVERY’ SPECIALLY ORGANISED WORKSHOPS TO HELP STIRLING BUSINESSES THROUGH THE DOWNTURN

A programme of economic downturn support measures aimed at helping businesses across the Stirling district has been further extended.

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) first launched a dedicated downturn training agenda in January 2009 as a means to guide and support local businesses through testing eonomic conditions.

A series of workshops since then have addressed key areas where businesses can safeguard their interests as well as strengthen their performance.

Now two years down the line and with over four hundred local businesses having accessed the support measures, a new eight week programme has been developed.

To be held at Stirling Enterprise Park in Stirling, scheduled workshops include:

  • 17th February – Facebook & Twitter – How To Build Business Through Social Media
  • 23rd February – How To Turn A ‘Lifestyle Business’ Into A Profitable Enterprise
  • 3rd March – How To Conduct A Fair Dismissal And Protect Your Interests
  • 9th March – How To Boost Your Sales & Marketing Performance in 2011
  • 24th March – Facebook & Twitter – How To Build Business Through Social Media
  • 1st April – Are You An Attractive Funding Proposition?
  • 21st April – Cloud Storage – Could An Online Storage Facility Save Your Business Money?

STEP Executive Director, Derek Gavin commented:  “Our economic downturn support measures have been well accessed throughout the period.  Local businesses have responded positively to this targeted assistance made available by STEP.  The terminology we are hearing less of amongst businesses is ‘staying afloat’ and ‘survival’ and more about ‘revival’ and ‘recovery’.  We are hopeful that this is reflective of the current and wider economic picture.

The Economic Downturn events are at no cost to participants as they are funded directly by STEP so as to assist local businesses.

If you would like to book onto one of the courses or need more information, please contact James Buchanan at Stirling Enterprise (STEP) on Tel: 01786 463 416 or Email: jbuchanan@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

Click the brochure above to view Economic Downturn courses.

 

December 2010

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all at Stirling Enterprise (STEP)!

October 2010

Plean Roadshow

Balfour Centre, Plean

Friday 29th October 2010, 1pm-4pm

 

 

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) will be taking its resources to Stirling’s wider community at the Balfour Centre, Plean on Friday 29th October 2010 from 1pm-4pm.

The event, a joint venture between STEP and Plean Community Trust, will offer advice and information on everything from learning new skills to starting or expanding a business throughout the afternoon.

There is no cost to the attendees as STEP operates a fully funded service.

STEP will also have a selection of partner agencies available including:

 

·        ILA Scotland - who can offer up to £200 towards the cost of retraining in a new profession or to brush up on old skills.

·       Job Centre Plus - for information and help for those considering self employment.

 

·        Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) - for people aged 18-25 who have a business idea. Advice on low interest loans and discretionary grant funding.

·        MacFarlane Gray Chartered Accountants - advice on personal finance issues, the best way to set up your business, how to be tax efficient and tax returns.

·        Healthy Working Lives - Free health and safety advice for your existing or future business.

 

Also available on the afternoon will be two seperate workshops, the first being ‘What you need to know before starting your own website’(1pm-3pm).Presented by STEP’s IT and Web Adviser, this will cover the basics and essentials needed before starting your own website. The second is ‘Being an Entrepreneur – The Toolkit Required’, (1-2pm) presented by Wendy Chalmers Mill of Positive Performance. Wendy is a Plean resident and will cover the necessary communication and leadership requirements for setting up in business and self employment. There are a limited number of spaces on each workshop and these should be booked in advance.

 

To register your interest or for more information please contact James Buchanan at Stirling Enterprise (STEP) on Tel: 01786 463 416 or Email: jbuchanan@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

 

 

October 2010

 

Women Into Business (WIB)

Wednesday 6th October 2010

STEP, Stirling, 6.30pm

 

SOCIAL MEDIA – FOR BUSINESS & FOR PLEASURE

Local business women keen to explore the benefits of Social Media as a marketing tool are encouraged to tap in to a free event taking place in Stirling next month.

Forth Valley Women Into Business will meet for the second event of its brand new year-long programme at Stirling Enterprise Park on Wednesday 6th October at 6.30pm.

Open to aspiring as well as existing local business women, the evening will provide an overview of the different Social Media platforms currently available and where business communications are heading in the future.

Pauline Randall, Managing Director of Virtual-e Ltd will headline the evening, explaining how she uses Social Media to promote both her business and herself.

The power of the internet as a sales tool will also be brought in to focus with the help of guest speaker Elaine Rogerson of Stirling-based Advanced Perimeter Systems.  Elaine will give an insight to what it is like to work for an electrical fencing and surveillance systems company that supplies products all over the world – with 99% of new sales being generated online.

Business Gateway Adviser Dorothy Henke commented: “This year’s new Forth Valley Women Into Business programme got off to a flying start last month with a launch event in Falkirk that attracted over eighty women.  We want to keep that momentum going and would encourage anyone at either the thinking or doing stages of getting a business off the ground to come along and get inspired.  Our events are informal, fun and attract women of all ages and backgrounds.  The common, uniting theme is an interest in self-employment.”

To reserve your place at this FREE event, please contact Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Reception on Tel: 01786 463 416 or E-mail: reception@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

 

September 2010

Killin Roadshow

Killin Hotel, Wed 22nd & Thurs 23rd September


Stirling Enterprise (STEP) will be taking its resources to Stirling’s most northerly areas at the Killin Hotel, Killin on the evening of Wednesday 22nd and during the day on Thursday 23rd
September 2010 from 10am – 4pm.


During the evening of Wednesday 22nd September we will be running a 'What you need to know before starting/creating a new website',seminar from 6.30pm - 8.30pm. This will focus on IT and Web Advice

.

On Thursday 23rd September, along with business start up, growth and IT and Web Advice, we will also have Jason Clark, Tourism Executive at Stirling Council with information on their Tourism Development Grant. Perth College will have information on their Inspiring Enterprise Project which can provide grants of up to £500 for marketing, training and software for new start rural Stirling businesses and DSL Business Finance, the not for profit bank, will have information on low interest business loans.
 

Advice on grant funding available from the Scotland Rural Development Programme (SRDP), Rural Priorities Scheme will also be on offer.

This is a fantastic opportunity to have your business, training and grant questions answered.

To register your interest or for more information please contact James Buchanan at Stirling Enterprise (STEP) on Tel: 01786 463 416 or Email: jbuchanan@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

 

September 2010
September 2010

Forth Valley Businesswomen given a Buzz

 

Business was the buzz word on the evening of Wednesday 1st September when 80 enthusiastic women attended a learning and networking event in Falkirk.

Held at The Buzz, Scotland’s leading family indoor and laser tag centre, the event focused on being ‘Fit For Business – Fit For Success’, and signalled the start of a new, year long Forth Valley Women Into Business programme.

Keynote speaker, and author of “Fifteen Mantras For The Empowered Woman”, Dr. Abha Sharma Rodriguez gave an inspirational talk and read extracts from her book based around mental well-being and her inspirations behind the book. Abha also lead the group in a 15 minute meditation and answered several questions from the intrigued crowd.

With several tables displaying some of the attendees mental and physical well-being products and services and local professional photographer, and regular Women Into Business attendee, Louise McMillan of Sharp Focus, the night was a huge success with the networking between the group continuing late into the evening.

Business Gateway Adviser, Dorothy Henke commented, “The launch event was a great success and sets a precedent for the rest of the Women Into Business programme. It was fantastic to see so many new business minded women come along and hopefully tonight will have helped them in all aspects of their lives”.

If you are interested in attending any of Women Into Business’s future events, which are held monthly, or would like any further information please contact Dorothy Henke at Falkirk For Business on Tel: 01324 665 500 or Email: dorothy.henke@falkirkforbusiness.org

 

August 2010

Launch Event For New Forth Valley

 Women Into Business Programme

Forth Valley Women Into Business continues its dedicated support and development programme for local business women with the launch of a brand new programme at The Buzz in Falkirk on Wednesday 1st September at 6.15pm

This year’s events programme will kick-start with ‘Fit For Business – Fit For Success’. This will look at how mental and physical preparation is vital to the success of a business.

The keynote speaker for this event will be Dr.Abha Sharma Rodrigues, author of the self-help book “Fifteen Mantras For The Empowered Woman”. Abha, originally from India but now based in Edinburgh, holds a Phd in English Literature from the University of Edinburgh and is an inspirational speaker, mentor and award winning restauranteur who is interested in self-development practices from around the world.

Business Gateway Adviser, Dorothy Henke commented, "Women often carry the burden of ensuring everyone in their circle is happy and well, often to the detriment of their own health. To be successful in business, women need to devote time to maintaining their health and well-being. This event will give invaluable pointers in how to do this effectively".

In addition to the keynote speaker, also invited are local business women who are involved in any aspect of well-being to have a table to display information on their services. There is no cost, but a table must be reserved in advance and will be on a first come first serve basis. If this is of interest please contact Dorothy Henke at Falkirk for Business on Tel: 01324 665 500


There will also be an opportunity to be given a tour of The Buzz, Scotland’s leading family indoor play and laser tag centre, during the evening and have your photo taken by professional photographer Louise McMillan of Sharp Focus. Louise, a regular attendee at Women into Business, recognises that photos on business cards or websites are fast becoming the norm.

A buffet, compliments of The Royal Bank of Scotland, will be served from 6.15pm with the formal part of the evening commencing at 7.00pm.

To reserve your place at this FREE event, please contact Natalie Bachen,

FalkirkForBusiness, on Tel: 01324 665500  or e-mail natalie.bachen@falkirkforbusiness.org

Please note that the venue is:

The Buzz

Castle Laurie

Bankside Industrial Estate

Falkirk

FK2 7XF

 
July 2010

The past year and a half has tested many businesses, of all shapes and sizes, across the Stirling District.

Support measures put in place by Stirling Enterprise (STEP) through events and workshop activity have been well received and well attended.

Over 350 businesses sought advice on ways to safeguard their interests in difficult economic conditions as well as strengthen their performance.

Continuing into Summer and Autumn 2010, STEP remains committed to ensuring that Stirling District businesses have access to advice and information so as to aid the collective effort to STEP out of the Downturn.

There is no charge for attendees as STEP operates a fully funded service.

For a full list of general Economic Downturn Courses click here.

For a full list of IT based Economic Downturn Workshops click here.

 

June 2010

InCommerce magazine is a business publication which is normally led by the Chamber of Commerce and is widely distributed throughout different regions of Scotland.

In the absence of any Chamber activity within the Stirling district, the publishers D-Tech Graphic Design and Print Ltd, have approached Stirling Enterprise (STEP) with a view to launching the publication locally.

D-Tech has a first class reputation for producing high quality business magazines. It is anticipated that the first publication will have around 40 pages – all of them in full colour – and a distribution of circa 2,500 copies published quarterly. These will be circulated across the Stirling district reaching an extensive readership achieved by the distribution of InCommerce Stirling & Trossachs by post and courier delivery. Additionally the magazine will be distributed by e-mail to the majority of businesses in the Stirling district.

There will be the opportunity for interested parties to contribute articles of news concerning their business such as success stories, expansion plans, examples of good practice etc. Articles should be around 300-400 words with pictures (digital e.g. jpegs preferred) and company logos. Please remember to include your contact details with the articles in case any follow up is required. We are now looking for articles for the launch issue which will be for the period August to October 2010. The deadline for submission of articles is 30 June 2010. Please send articles direct to Caroline Brown at STEP via the following e-mail address cbrown@stirling-enterprise.co.uk.

We would also welcome any suggestions you may have of the kind of information you would like to see in the magazine.

We would encourage local businesses to take advantage of this exciting new publication. If you would like to advertise in the quarterly magazine please contact Debbie or Chris of D-Tech on Tel: 01436 821438. Further contact details are provided at the bottom of this letter.

Advertising copy deadline for the first edition is 10 July 2010 at the latest.

In Commerce will be able to highlight your business and tell the story of your success. It can be your advertising tool and presents an opportunity, collectively, to promote local businesses. Your support with this exciting new venture will be welcomed.

D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Limited, Royal Northern & Clyde Yacht Club, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8NG.T: 01436 821501 F: 01436 820028

Any enquiries please contact:

Advertising:

  • Chris: T: 01436 821438 E: chris@dtechuk.com
  • Copy Supply:

    For an advertisement price list click here

    For an order form click here

     

     

     

     

    June 2010

    RAPLOCH ROADSHOW SUCCESS

    Enterprise was the buzz word in Raploch on Friday 28th May, when 28 aspiring and existing business people attended a Business Roadshow event organised by Stirling Enterprise (STEP).

     Held at the Comunity Campus, the Raploch Roadshow Event coincided with National Enterprise Week and was aimed at advising enterprising locals in both setting up and developing their businesses as well as offering training and other support.

     There was a good turn out by people from across the City of Stirling with a healthy number of appointments not just with STEP’s business advisers but also with local accountants Macfarlane Gray, the Princes’ Scottish Youth Business Trust, Job Centre Plus, Healthy Working Lives and Innovators Counselling and Advisory Service for Scotland (ICASS).

     The biggest success of the day was the Social Media Workshop, delivered by Pauline Randall of Virtual-e Ltd, which saw a full room of local business people learning about the world of Social Media and how they can use it to aid their own businesses. The huge demand for the workshop has resulted in two additional workshop dates being added to the programme.

     

    May 2010
    NATIONAL ENTERPRISE WEEK SEES RAPLOCH IN THE SPOTLIGHT

    Raploch will be in the spotlight later this month thanks to efforts made by Stirling Enterprise (STEP) to mark National Enterprise Week.

    A roadshow event aimed at enterprising locals from across the City will take place on Friday 28th May from 10am until 4pm at Raploch Community Campus.

    Advice and information on everything from learning new skills to starting or expanding a business will be on offer throughout the day.

    There is no cost to attendees as STEP operates a fully funded service.

    STEP will also have a selection of partner agencies available on the day including:

    • ILA – who can offer up to £200 towards the cost of retraining in a new profession or to brush up on old skills.
    • Job Centre Plus – for infomation and help for people who are considering self employment
    • Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) – for people aged 18-25 and have a business idea. Advice on low interest business loans and discretionary grant funding.
    • Local Chartered Accountancy Firm – advice on personal finance issues, the best way to set up your business, how to be tax efficient and tax returns.
    • ICASS – information and advice on how to set up a trademark, copyright or patent
    • Healthy Working Lives – Free health and safety advice for your existing or future businesses

    A Social Media workshop presented by Pauline Randall of Virtual-e Ltd from 10am-1pm will outline the basics on how businesses can use social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter as sources of inexpensive but effective ways of marketing. There are a limited number of spaces on the workshop and places should be booked in advance.

    Raploch has been an area in recent years with much entrepreneurial inspiration. None more prominent than Steven McLeod, who started his career as a Kitchen Porter at the Royal Hotel in Bridge of Allan at the age of 14. At 17 he became part time supervisor at the Dunblane Hydro Hotel before becoming the youngest ever general manager in the Macdonald Hotels Limited at only 24.

    In 2005, McLeod started his own business by buying Airth Castle Hotel and Spa. He now boasts several hotels in the ever growing portfolio of Aurora Hotels Collection and by the end of 2010 approximately 2500 people will be employed by his organisation.

    For more information or to register your interest in this event please contact James Buchanan at Stirling Enterprise (STEP) on Tel: 01786 463 416 or E-mail: jbuchanan@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

     
    April 2010

    Multi-Sense Technologies

    STEP Company Poised To Revolutionise Disease Diagnosis Around The World

    Multi-Sense Technologies is a young start up company committed to developing a revolutionary and flexible platform technology that will transform In-Vitro Diagnostic testing and provide next generation health care. The concept is based upon creating a portable meter and disposable test strip that can measure any analyte of interest for the diagnosis of a whole range of disease states (for example using immunoassays, molecular and cellular assays) with significant competitive advantages. The Multi-Sense Technologies business plan involves Multi-Sense Technologies being the supplier of the next generation In-Vitro Diagnostic tests, forging strategic partnerships with established In-Vitro Diagnostic companies and Government bodies.

    Multi-Sense Technologies was started in October 2009 by Dr Phill Lowe and Brian McGuigan. In March 2010 Multi-Sense Technologies received funding from the SMART: Scotland scheme which will allow Multi-Sense Technologies to prove the feasibility of their revolutionary In-Vitro Diagnostic testing platform. The SMART award funding also allowed Multi-Sense Technologies to welcome their third member, Dr Steven Keatch to the team. All three members of the team are experienced in the medical device field and have been involved in taking multiple products from the initial design phase all the way through the product development cycle to a successful product launch.

    Multi-Sense Technologies are based at the Stirling Enterprise Park and have received excellent support from Business Gateway including initial workshops which were free to attend and communicated valuable information about starting up a business. The Business Gateway service has also given Multi-Sense Technologies free access to a wealth of market research and reference reports that allowed Multi-Sense Technologies to complete their initial Market Research Business Plan activities. Stirling Enterprise and Business Gateway have also acted as a good guide into SMART: Scotland and the Scottish Enterprise High Growth Pipeline who have both been very helpful in supporting and advising Multi-Sense Technologies in this early part of the life of the company. SMART:Scotland in particular have been extremely helpful and pro active in helping Multi-Sense Technologies through the SMART award application process.

     
    March 2010
    STEP INTO RAPLOCH

    Advice Clinics for Enterprising Locals

    A pilot outreach service aimed at residents and existing businesses from in and around the Raploch area will kick start later this month.

    Organised by Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, the first open-door advice session will take place from 12pm – 2.30pm on Tuesday 23rd March within the Raploch Community Campus facility. Another will follow on Thursday 15th April.

    Aimed at those considering self employment as well as existing businesses from the area, STEP is keen to cast the net as wide as possible.

    STEP Business Gateway Adviser Jim Fraser will front the advice sessions which will offer a diverse mix of advice and information.

    STEP Executive Director Derek Gavin commented:

    “As part of an ongoing and planned programme of outreach support to communities across the district of Stirling, we have set our sights on Raploch as an area worth investing our time and support energies within.

    “It is clear to see Raploch is changing. With a brand new campus facility, new housing, a new agricultural market and future planned redevelopment of the Kildean site – regeneration has brought a sense of optimism and vibrancy to the area. We firmly believe that if harnessed properly this can translate to the aspirations of local people and businesses.”

    Advice sessions are open to anyone keen to discuss a self employment idea, at the early stages of getting started in business as well as those already up and running. There is no cost to attendees as STEP operates a fully funded service.

    To reserve your place at either of the advice sessions, contact Denise Mallinson, Stirling Enterprise on Tel: 01786 463416 or e-mail: businessgateway@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

     

    January 2010

    FARMERS AND FUNDERS GIVE RURAL PRIORITIES

    WORKSHOPS THE THUMBS UP

    A programme of support to help Forth Valley farmers access the SRDP Rural Priorities Scheme has been given the green light to continue and expand in to Fife during 2010.


    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) has secured a second year of funding from the Scottish Government Skills Development Scheme (SDS) to run outreach workshops that will equip farmers with the IT and web know-how to apply to the online grant scheme.


    Eighty farmers accessed last year’s pilot programme in Forth Valley, with around a quarter already having moved forward to progress applications to the scheme.


    STEP Rural & Farm Support Officer, Caroline Brown commented:  "Traditionally, enterprise companies aren’t an obvious choice for farmers to turn to for help in accessing grant funds.  However, we felt confident we had something to offer by way of our knowledge and understanding of the Rural Priorities scheme and in our ability to offer meaningful help on the broadband, IT and web front.  Combined, these factors have proved beneficial to local farmers and will continue to through the 2010 programme."


    The first two workshops of the programme have been scheduled for Thurs 25th February (7pm – 9pm) at Elmwood College, Cupar and Wed 21st April (7pm – 9pm) at Forrester Park Resort, Cairneyhill, Dunfermline.


    January 2009

    BUSINESS WORKSHOPS TO HELP COPE
    WITH THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN

    A series of free workshops designed to help local businesses in the present economic downturn will commence later this month.

    Organised by Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, five workshops, each headed up by an expert speaker or panel, will provide practical tips and guidance on how businesses can both save and make more money in 2009.

    The first workshop, to be delivered by award winning, Glasgow-based PR agency, Wave PR Ltd, is entitled PR On A Shoestring.  This will take place on Wed 28th January at 10am till 12.30pm and will look at the various ways businesses can increase their profile on a minimal budget.

    Other workshops include a Trading Through The Downturn breakfast Briefing (Thurs 12th Feb, 8am till 9.45am), Making Your Website Work Harder For You (Wed 18th Feb, 10am till 12pm), A Financial View Of How To Survive The Credit Crunch (Tues 24th Feb, 10am till 11.30am) and Negotiate Your Way To Success With Suppliers and Customers (Thurs 26th Feb, 10am till 12.30pm).

    Commenting on the workshops, STEP Executive Director, Derek Gavin said:

    “In the midst of a credit crisis and times of uncertainty, it can be tempting to batten down the hatches and go in to survival mode. 

    “The thinking behind this series of workshops is to encourage local businesses not to go it alone, but to access as much advice and support as possible.  Providing an arena where local businesses can share their experiences of the current climate – and recognise that they are not in isolation – is also crucially important.”

     

    BUSINESS START-UP AWARENESS WORKSHOP
    FOR DRYMEN & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

    DRYMEN residents mulling over a business idea – or at the early stages of getting a new enterprise off the ground – are advised to block off the afternoon of Wed, 26th November 2008 in their diary.

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway will deliver a FREE Start-Up Awareness workshop at the Buchanan Arms Hotel from 12pm – 2pm. 

    The 2-hour event will look at Business Planning, Marketing, Finance and IT (Web site) as well as practical issues and sources of assistance.

    Following the workshop, there will also be an opportunity to speak to a Business Start-Up Adviser, on a one-to-one basis for further advice.

    Business Start-Up Adviser Jim Fraser commented:  “The afternoon will be a relaxed and informal information session, ideal for anyone keen to explore the idea of self-employment, or those at the early stages of getting started in business for themselves for the first time.”

    For further information, or to reserve a place on this workshop, please contact Keeley Davis on Tel: 01786 463416 or E-mail: kdavis@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

     

    WAKESCOT 2008
    LOCHEARNHEAD – A NEW MECCA FOR WAKE BOARD ENTHUSIASTS 

     

         

    It didn’t matter that the fixture date was the 25th October, that the location was Loch Earn in the heart of the Trossachs – or that the weather was ‘a bit dreich’

    Stalwarts and followers of the cult water sport that is Wake Boarding still beat a path from across Scotland and as far a field as Spain to attend WakeScot 2008.

    With acclaimed UK Wake Boarder Dan Jordan on board, helping give the event some serious credence, event organisers Barry and Matt McGrandles, of Active Scotland Ltd, were delighted with the results.

    The day’s activities kicked-off at 10am with a Dan Jordan Coaching clinic. Organised into a series of 16 x 15 minute sets, these catered for all ages and abilities.

    In the afternoon, it was competition time, allowing entrants the chance to demonstrate a bit of creative flair with tricks and manoeuvres that impressed newcomers to the sport and seasoned professionals alike.  

    Competition categories included Under 16 mixed, Rookie, Open Men and Open Women.

    All riders for the competition and Dan Jordan's morning clinic rode off a MasterCraft X2 2008 Rider League boat that has pulled the UK tour.

    Organisers Matt and Barry, who started up their water sports business in March this year – with support from Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway - were keen that the day should appeal to wakeboarding fans and families alike.

    With MasterCraft, Outback Bar & Grill, Morrisons Landrover and Lomond Spas on board, all displaying the kind of aspiration lifestyle goods that every water sport enthusiasts needs in their lives, WakeScot 2008 undoubtedly had a ‘big event’ feel about it.

    Barry McGrandles commented:  “We pulled out all the stops to ensure that we ended our first season in business on a high.   Securing a respected name like Dan Jordan, who has close links within the sport at a European level and a big following, sends out a strong message about our intentions to be taken seriously as a water sports centre of excellence.”

     

     Network Your Way To Success – And Enjoy It !
    Women Into Business, Thurs, 30th October, 2008
    Newhouse Business Park, Grangemouth, 6.30pm

    Hands up how many of you hate the term Networking?  Go on, be honest.  You know you’re not supposed to admit to it in civilized company - because as everyone tells you, it’s an integral part of being successful in business.

    However, for many of us, no matter how hard we try, the word still conjures up images of suited and ultra confident business women, prowling meeting venues in packs, while the rest of us huddle around the refreshments table – or worse still – in the toilets, wishing the event would just get started!

    The reality is that for most of us, ‘Networking’ doesn’t come easy.  But that’s not to say, we should feel intimidated by the prospect or be put off doing it.

    This month’s free Women Into Business event, to be held at Newhouse Business Park, Grangemouth on Thursday, 30th October, will aim to shed a more positive light on networking, will demonstrate that it’s an activity worth persevering with and mastering – and that the results can be worthwhile.

    Headlining the night, will be Amanda Boyle, the brains behind the networking organisation Business 9am (www.business9am.co.uk).  Amanda will speak about the importance of networking as a key part of business strategy, including where, when and how to go about it.

    Following Amanda’s inspirational talk will be Val Trotter of Pebbles Jewellery.  Val, who owns two successful contemporary jewellery shops in Bo’ness and Edinburgh, will talk about her business and the secrets of her success.

    Tea / Coffee and Pastries will be available at no cost to the attendee.

    To reserve your place at this FREE event, please contact Falkirk Enterprise Action Trust (FEAT), Newhouse Business Park on Tel: 01324 665500 or E-mail: leahm@feat.org.uk

     

    SRDP GREEN LIGHT FOR IT & WEB TRAINING INITIATIVE TO HELP FORTH VALLEY FARMERS

         

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) has been given the green light by Scottish Government to deliver a year-long IT and Web Outreach initiative, aimed specifically at farmers in the Forth Valley area. 

    The local enterprise trust, who also deliver Business Gateway services in the Stirling District area, has secured £18,450 of funding from the Skills Development Scheme (SDS) which falls under the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) umbrella.

    STEP itself will contribute a percentage to the total running cost of the programme, with participants contributing a small nominal fee to secure a workshop place.

    The first of a series of ten planned mobile workshops will hit the road in late November in Drymen, equipping local farmers and their families with the IT know-how and web provision to access and negotiate the SRDP website and confidently tackle the on-line application process.

    More crucially, the outreach workshops will allow local farmers access to two-hours worth of IT and Broadband provision and an IT professional.

    The workshops will be held in local hotels in the Stirling, Clackmannan and Falkirk area in an evening format and participants will be have the option of a one-hour individual follow-up support session to consolidate or refresh their knowledge.

    Caroline Brown, Rural & Farm Support Officer for Stirling Enterprise (STEP) commented:

    “We are delighted to have secured this funding and are keen to get out on the road and meet with local farmers and start delivering the training as opposed to talking about it. Through our Business Gateway activity, we already have good links with farm businesses in the area and we have been working closely with NFU Scotland and SAC to extend and develop that.

    “As an addendum to our current Business Gateway contract, we were awarded funding to raise awareness of SRDP and the opportunities within it for farms and rural businesses across Forth Valley.  We have been actively doing this and have seen first hand the difficulties that applicants are encountering along the way.  We will now also be able to link clients attending this new web training into relevant Business Gateway services so as to maximise benefits.”

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) has a joint event with NFU Scotland and SAC Stirling planned for the evening of Wed, 22nd October at Stirling Enterprise Park, Stirling.  The event will look at the overall picture of SRDP and how applicants can best tackle the online application process.  Information on the scoring system used by Case Workers to process applications will also be available.

    Caroline continued:  “This event will provide the ideal platform to roll out the first half of our planned schedule of IT & Web outreach workshops.”


    First Series of SRDP/IT Workshops

    Date Where Time
    26th Nov 08 Buchanan Arms, Drymen 7pm - 9pm
    28th Jan 09 Harviestoun Hotel, Tillicoultry 7pm - 9pm
    26th Feb 09 Glenskirlie House, Banknock 7pm - 9pm
    25th Mar 09 Bridge of Lochay Hotel, Killin 7pm - 9pm

     

     

      EXPERT ADVISORY LINE-UP FOR
    FORTH VALLEY BUSINESS WOMEN

    Drawing to a close a successful year-long programme of Women Into Business workshops, that have tackled everything from Networking to Business Planning, this months event will allow aspiring and existing Forth Valley business women access to not just one area of expertise, but six in one evening.

    Entitled ‘Ask The Expert’, the FREE workshop, to be held at Stirling Enterprise Park, Stirling on Thursday 25th September at 6.30pm, will take the form of discussion groups, involving six expert speakers and a series of 10-minute round table question and answer sessions. 

    Attendees will be able to pose questions and scenarios to their guest expert, before moving on to the next table – and so on.  A group networking session will then follow.

    The panel of experts will comprise of a Branding Expert, a Chartered Accountant, a HMRC representative, a Business Gateway Adviser, a Bank Manager and an IT Expert.

    Dorothy Henke of FEAT Business Gateway commented:

     “With six experts lined up to headline this month’s event, each providing free practical advice on core business subjects, the session promises to be a lively and informative one.  If you have a burning question you would like to pose, or are simply interested in picking up some useful hints and tips from those ‘in the know’ – then this is the event for you.” 

    A new programme of Women Into Business (WIB) events will commence in October 2008.

    To reserve your place at this FREE event, please contact Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway on Tel: 01786 463416 or E-mail: kdavis@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

     

    August 15th 2008

    FREE WORKSHOPS TO HELP LOCAL STIRLING BUSINESSES PROSPER

    Companies based throughout the Stirling area set to benefit from a range of business seminars

    New and existing Stirling companies looking to grow and develop can take advantage of a wide range of free workshops run by Business Gateway Forth Valley. 

    From honing your financial management skills to developing your marketing knowledge, understanding the tax system to finding out the basics of business start-up there’s a workshop that can help you flourish. 

    Graeme Clark, Managing Director of Scot Serve Ltd, based in Bridge of Allan said: “The workshops offered by Business Gateway Forth Valley have been immensely useful and helped us grow and develop our business within the Stirling area. I would encourage other Stirling companies who are looking to take their business to the next level to attend a range of workshops as they are a great way to tap into expert advice for free.” 

    Throughout August and September, the series of summer workshops are designed to add benefit to your business, at no extra cost.

    The comprehensive programme, held in the John Player Building, Stirling Enterprise Park, includes:

    • Book-keeping: The golden rule of setting up a system to manage finances is that it should be simple and methodical. This course, which runs from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on August 26th and 27th, will teach businesses the fundamentals and at the same time equip them with a new skill for life,
    • Improve Your Search Engine Ranking: On September 3rd, from 9.30 a.m. until 12.30 p.m., companies will learn how to improve their search engine positioning as well as maximise business promotion online,
    • Get Real Results From Your Website: Held on September 18th from 9.30 a.m. until 12.30 p.m. the seminar looks at both the human and technical aspects of a great website including: site planning; design; and operational processes.

    Henry Mooney, Business Gateway Growth Adviser, Business Gateway Forth Valley said: “These workshops are a great way to improve your business acumen and ensure that your company is best placed to thrive in the marketplace. Gaining free access to expert advice is an offer that’s almost too good to ignore for any firm.”

    Business Gateway provides practical help, advice and support for new and growing businesses throughout Scotland. 

    To find out more about how it can help you set up and develop your own business visit www.bgateway.com or call or call 0845 609 6611. Alternatively call your local Business Gateway office directly on 01786 463416.

    Events can be booked online or over the telephone. 

     

    CALLANDER
    BUSINESS ADVICE
    CLINIC BECOMES
    A REGULAR FIXTURE ...

    Thurs, 24th July 2008

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway has teamed up with Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, to allow individuals and businesses from the local and surrounding areas the chance to tap in to some regular business advice.

    Based on a series of well-attended pilot clinics earlier this year, Business Gateway Start-Up Adviser, Jim Fraser is keen to make his availability at the Callander office a regular fixture.

    Jim commented: “We were pleasantly surprised with the level of interest and uptake in our services while out in Callander for the two free afternoon sessions.

    “We would encourage anyone, whether at the thinking, planning or doing stage of getting started in business - or keen to grow an existing business - to follow suit and come along and talk to us.

    “Popular areas of advice tend to centre on tax, national insurance, business insurance, registering a business name, employing staff, marketing and grant availability. However, we can provide information and support on a wide range of business start up issues as well as signpost to specialist partner agencies and organisations.”

    Jim Fraser will be available at the LLTNPA Callander office on Thurs, 24th July 2008 from 2pm to 4pm.

    Anyone interested in attending should contact Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway on Tel: 01786 463416 or e-mail reception@stirling-enterprise.co.uk to reserve an appointment slot.
     

    TOP TIPS ON
    FINANCE & FUNDING
    FOR FORTH VALLEY BUSINESS WOMEN

    Finance and funding will be top of the agenda for Forth Valley business women at a free event to be held in Grangemouth next week.

    The Women Into Business event will be held at Newhouse Business Park, on Thursday, 29th May 2008 at 6.30pm

    Business Gateway, organiser of the event, has enlisted some expert help to demonstrate that the subject can be tackled in a straightforward and positive manner.

    Glasgow-based, DSL Finance – a not-for-profit company whose aim is to finance start-up and growth businesses, will deliver a presentation looking at Loans, Business Angels, Banking Options, Loan Appraisals and Local Loan Funds.

    Dorothy Henke of FEAT Business Gateway commented:

    “When it comes to financial advice – it pays to be informed. Particularly when that information is free of charge. And in terms of timing and preparation, the earlier the better is what we say. Having an understanding of the options available will save you a lot of research and downtime when it really matters.”

    Providing some local, real-life input to the subject matter will be Falkirk business woman, Laraine Binnie of Airth Station Cattery and Kennels. Since starting up in business 15 years ago, expansion has been a continual theme for Laraine, who now employs 5 members of staff.

    To reserve your place at this FREE event, please contact Falkirk Enterprise Action Trust (FEAT), Newhouse Business Park on Tel: 01324 665500 or E-mail: leahm@feat.org.uk

     

     

    COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS

    Women Into Business,
    Thurs, 24th April 2008 Stirling Enterprise Park, Stirling, 6.30pm

    If you are already up and running in business, taking time out to consider how you communicate with customers might not seem like a top priority. If you’re just getting started, then there are probably numerous other issues monopolising your time.

    However, pause for a moment, step back and consider this. Each and every interaction with a potential or existing customer affords you a prime opportunity to capitalise on how good your services are. By being informed and switched on to the opportunities that exist - in a way that your competitors are oblivious to - affords you a chance to truly fly the professionalism flag in a way that customers will remember.

    This month’s Women Into Business event, to be held at 6.30pm on Thursday, 24th April at Stirling Enterprise Park, will bring customer communication to the fore. We are delighted to welcome along a true industry professional in the form of Wendy Chalmers-Mill of Positive Performance (www.positive-performance.com). Wendy, a consultant with extensive industry experience has trained multi-national companies such as BMW and Coca-Cola Schweppes as well as The House of Commons.

    In her speaker slot, Wendy will encourage attendees to consider the following:

    • What message are you conveying to your customers?
    • Are you being consistent?
    • Do your customers really understand what you do?
    • Do you have open lines of communication for them giving you feedback?
    • How can you improve your communications to maintain customer loyalty?

    In our regular 15 min ‘chat spot’ we are also delighted to welcome along Joanne Kelso of The Tea Room Scotland Ltd fame. Joanne started her Stirling-based business a year ago, secured a VisitScotland Eat Scotland award within 6 weeks of opening and now employs 10 staff members. And all that from a business based within the living room of her Braehead home!

    There will also be an interactive element to the evening, with attendees encouraged to break off into groups to tackle a Case Study assignment.

    Tea / Coffee and Pastries will be available at no cost to the attendee.

    To reserve your place at this FREE event, please contact Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway Reception on Tel: 01786 463416 or E-mail reception@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

     
    POLISH BUSINESS
    START-UP EVENT
    PROVES POPULAR

    A dedicated business start-up event aimed at Stirling’s growing Polish population attracted a healthy turnout last weekend (Sunday 9th March).

    Thirty-two people made it along to the afternoon information session held at Stirling Enterprise Park and organised by Business Gateway.

    Local businesswoman, Mariola Rebisz, was actively involved in co-ordinating and raising awareness of the event within the local Polish community.  She also delivered a presentation detailing the support available locally through Business Gateway as well as acting as interpreter on the day.

    Mariola was able to give attendees the benefit of her own experience of accessing local Business Gateway support services to help get her own business off the ground.

    She commented:

    “It was encouraging to see so many Polish people keen to learn more about the support opportunities available to go down the self employment route. I myself have been fortunate in the help that I received from STEP Business Gateway to help get my own translation business off the ground and was able to articulate that to attendees.

    “Through my own business, Polish In UK, I assist members of the Polish community to communicate with local organisations and agencies and overcome language barriers – particularly when families or individuals are new to the area and their initial understanding of the English language is minimal.”

    “My involvement on the day was really just an extension of that support on a larger scale.”
     

    WOMEN PUT THE BUZZ

    INTO FORTH VALLEY BUSINESS

    Some 40 fledgling and newly established female entrepreneurs found out recently why conventional advertising doesn’t work for most new small businesses.

    The evening event, which was organised by Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley Women Into Business, finished with the inspiring tale of how a Falkirk-based, one-woman business achieved a turnover of half a million pounds, offering a dedicated show house interior design service.

    Dorothy Henke from Falkirk Enterprise Action Trust (FEAT) Business Gateway and Penny Haywood from PHPR Ltd outlined the basics of how marketing, sales and PR work and why they need to be used together to get businesses off the ground.

    Penny, who wrote the business book best-seller, DIY PR, the small business owner’s guide to ‘free’ publicity, said, "PR, marketing and sales disciplines have been in their own silos for too long. Smart business owners harness the combined power of all three, to leverage the profile generated by PR, with marketing and sales actions designed to grab the attention and convert that into sales."

    Penny said, "I’ve seen coverage in respected media quoted all over a company’s website, leaflets, business cards and email signatures years after it was published – and why not? It’s as good as an award because it has the extraordinary power of being an independent media endorsement of your business. But you need to communicate the benefits the end user will get from your products and services, instead of telling them all the things you or your product can do, if you want to convert the warm glow of good press coverage into sales success."

    "You need to be using at least three marketing and sales or PR techniques at any one time to keep the business name recognition going and that includes both on and offline techniques."

    And there was no shortage of experience on what PR, marketing and sales techniques work for small businesses. Those already in business shared their experience of using over 20 different sales, marketing and PR techniques, providing real-life examples of what produces business results to boost businesses in the Forth Valley area.

    The women represented a wide range of businesses from printers, designers, copy-writers and marketing consultants to interior designers, clothes and body image consultants, complementary therapists, life and business coaches, management consultants, business de-cluttering and organising services. The more unusual included an artist, a farmer and food provider, a commercial sound system installer and a female DIY expert who undertakes a wide range of property projects. A new business, targeted at improving the relationship between horses and their owners, scheduled for launch in the New Year, became a practical demonstration on how to approach writing news releases.

    The Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley funded, Women Into Business group, also provides a valuable platform for new business owners to make presentations on their businesses and attracts a number of special offers and prizes which are drawn at the meeting.

    The next Women Into Business meeting, entitled Understanding E-Commerce, is scheduled to take place at 6.30pm on Thursday, 31st January 2008 at Newhouse Business Park, Grangemouth.  To reserve your place, contact Elinor Waller on Tel: 01786 452026 or e-mail: elinor.waller@scotent.co.uk
     

    INVITATION

    STEP News Archive

    WOMEN INTO BUSINESS

    MANAGING YOUR PR & MARKETING ACTIVITY

    Women Into Business, Thurs 29th November 2007
    Stirling Enterprise Park, 6.30pm

     Establishing a public profile and formulating a marketing plan will help you form a solid platform upon which to build your business … FACT.

    It’s a FICTION however, to assume that to be successful at these activities, you will require overflowing pots of money and the services of marketing and advertising gurus.

     Keeping it simple, being innovative and never under-estimating the power of good old fashioned word of mouth recommendations, are essential components to communicating the existence of your business and acquiring paying customers.

     This month’s Women Into Business event, planned for Thursday, 29th November 2007 at Stirling Enterprise Park, aims to explode some of the myths and misnomers that surround the world of PR & Marketing and replace them with some straightforward, common-sense advice from people in the know.

     As a result, we are delighted to welcome along guest speaker, Penny Haywood of Edinburgh-based PR company, PHPR (www.phpr.co.uk)

    We are also delighted to welcome along to our ‘chat spot’ some home-grown talent in the form of Vikki Graham of Falkirk-based Interior Design company, Aura Design.

     Elinor Waller of Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley commented:

     “This month’s Women Into Business event is shaping up to be a ‘must attend’.  Not only will it allow Forth Valley women a chance to tap into some expert PR advice from a well-known industry professional – but it will also provide an opportunity to hear what it’s like on the ground.  When you are starting out it helps to know early on what’s effective and what’s not when it comes to marketing and promoting your business.  It helps avoid costly mistakes and a lot of unnecessary head scratching along the way.”

     Attendees are invited to bring along any press clippings that they have already achieved, or any newspaper cuttings that they find inspirational.  These will help create a discussion board.

     A buffet and refreshments will also be provided (at a cost of £5 payable on the night) and there will be a members’ table to display promotional material and business cards. 

     To reserve your place at this Women Into Business event, please contact Elinor Waller on Tel: 01786 452026  or E-mail: elinor.waller@scotent.co.uk

     Speaker Biogs

     Penny Haywood, PHPR Ltd

    Penny founded PHPR in 1986 after 13 years handling PR and publications at Bank of Scotland where she handled press relations on the Sir Thomas Risk/Guinness/Distillers debacle.  Penny also launched the world's first online bank - in 1985 - long before most people had heard of the internet.

     Penny's background is in journalism and for 10 years she wrote a personal finance column for the UK's largest circulation women's weekly magazine. She has contributed to a variety of newspapers including The Sunday Times and various magazines. Penny is the author of a best-selling business book: DIY PR.

    www.phpr.co.uk

     Vikki Graham, Aura Design 

    Vikki started her Interior Design business in Falkirk three years ago.  Within a few short months, she had achieved her annual target.  Through repeat customer business and recommendations, Aura Design has gone from strength-to-strength.  Vikki works from home and juggles family and business commitments.

     

    Summer 2007

    VISITORS ‘CZECH OUT’
    STIRLING’S CULTURE OF ENTERPRISE

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) played host to a visit from a nine-strong delegation of Czech officials with an interest in enterprise recently.

    The exchange trip – which was supported by Equal – a European Social Fund scheme – saw the group travel from the town of Most, 50 miles outside of Prague.
    The group were in Scotland for one week and during that time seized the opportunity to visit the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) HQ, Kilmarnock College, Careers Scotland, a Welfare to Work Conference in Glasgow and a JobCentre Plus in East Ayrshire.

    The visit to Stirling enabled the group to learn more about the enterprising culture of Scotland and – in particular - how Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway support and assist new and existing businesses.

    The trip also coincided with a Women In Enterprise event held at Gartmore House which was organised by Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority.

    Derek Gavin, STEP Executive Director:

    “The objective of the day was to explain to the visitors the support and encouragement which exists for new businesses in Stirling and to stress the importance - not only of the Central Government support services – but also the ‘self-help’ activities.

    “During the visit we were able to explain to our guests about the Government / Scottish Enterprise funded support available. The field trip to Gartmore during the afternoon allowed our guests to see for themselves a self-help activity in action.

    “With women being a historically under represented sector in business in Scotland, this was a perfect opportunity to demonstrate what can be achieved through working together to address that issue.”

    Following on from the success of the visit, Stirling Enterprise (STEP) have already been asked to host a similar visit from a group of Czech politicians later this summer.

    Spring 2007
    DUNBLANE DATE FOR BUSINESS ROADSHOW

    Businesses and individuals in Dunblane and the surrounding areas were extended an open invite to attend a business roadshow event taking place on their doorstep in March.

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway - and a selection of partner agencies - were stationed at the Dunblane Centre on Wed 28th March from 10am - 4pm.

    The following FREE advice and support was on offer throughout the day:

    • Business Start-Up Advice
    • Business Growth Advice
    • IT & Web Advice
    • Beginners Guide To Buying & Selling on E-Bay - for business and for pleasure (FREE morning workshop)
    • Stirling Council - Meet The Procurement Team.  Find out how to 'do business' with Stirling Council (12pm - 4pm)
    • The A9 Partnership, Chartered Accountants. A quick query or some more in-depth tax advice required? Why not take advantage of some FREE advice?
    • Healthy Working Lives - How does a FREE & Confidential health and safety audit for your business grab you?
    • learndirect scotland for business - get the best from your people and enhance the competitiveness of your business through training.

    The event was well attended with 32 people making it along on the day.
     

    Winter 2006  
    PUBLIC SECTOR PROCUREMENT ...
    What's In It For Stirling SMEs?
    A business event aimed at helping Stirling businesses improve their chances of winning public sector procurement contracts took place on Wed, 15th Nov, 2006 at Stirling Enterprise Park.

    An impressive speaker line-up headlined the evening including:

    • Don MacMillan, Procurement Manager, Stirling Council
    • Joanne Flanagan, Euro Info Centre – ‘Your Key To The European Market Place’
    • Philip Martin, Director of Network Procurement, Scottish Enterprise

    The event, which was organised by Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, attracted representatives of 50 local businesses.

    Speaking before the event, STEP Executive Director Derek Gavin said:

    “The evening will aim to increase understanding of the purchasing process of key public bodies and alert local businesses – of all sizes and sectors – to the diversity of contract opportunities that exist locally, nationally and in Europe.

    “We would urge local businesses to take advantage of this opportunity to engage with these organisations. There will also be a question and answer session where attendees will be given the chance to address the panel.”

    Philip Martin, Director of Network Procurement, Scottish Enterprise, centred on the McClelland Review into Public Sector Procurement in Scotland, and in particular the opportunities and challenges that this will present small to medium sized enterprises across the entire public sector.

    A buffet and networking opportunity followed and many attendees grasped the opportunity to talk to the speakers.
     

    Summer 2006  
    Callander Community Embrace Business Roadshow Event  

    Thirty representatives of new and existing businesses from the Callander and surrounding areas made it along to the McLaren Leisure Centre on Wednesday,

    28th June.

    All were keen to take advantage of STEP's presence in their area and to access a range of free business support services.

    Business start-up advice, business growth advice, web and IT advice were on offer from a line up of fours STEP Business Gateway Advisers.  Partner agencies in the form of SEERAD's Farm Diversification Division, VisitScotland, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, Safe & Healthy Working, learndirect scotland for business and Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley Business Information Services also made the trip to Callander - all keen to engage with the local business community.

    STEP's extended Roadshow programme for 2006/7 is being part-funded by Equal, a European Social fund scheme.  As part of this activity, STEP Business Gateway will be accessible in a different rural community every month across Stirling. 
     

      Spring 2006

    A PR & Media Relations Masterclass

    April Evening Event

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) hosted a PR & Media Relations master-class in April with Gordon Beattie of Beattie Communications as guest speaker.

    The evening event took place at Stirling Enterprise Park with representatives from over 60 Forth Valley businesses taking advantage of the opportunity to access some expert PR advice.

    Attendees were treated to Welcome Drinks at 06.30pm before Gordon Beattie took to the stand at 7pm.  A supper and networking opportunity then followed. 

    Journalist Gordon Beattie established the Beattie Media Group in 1986.  Enticing colleagues from newspapers, television and radio to join him, the company quickly established itself as the UK leader in the field of media relations.  They now operate from a network of nine offices with an International network spanning 100 cities worldwide.

    This event was the first of a planned series of high-profile evening master-class and networking events scheduled for 2006/7. 
     

      Spring 2006

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Killin Roadshow Success

    Locals turn out in force for rural business event

    22 representatives of new and existing businesses from the Killin and surrounding areas made it along to the McLaren Hall in Killin on Wed, 29th March.

    All were keen to take advantage of STEP's presence in their area and to access a range of free business support services.

    Business Start-up advice, business growth advice, web and IT advice were on offer from a line up of four STEP Business Gateway Advisers.  Partner agencies, in the form of SEERAD's Farm Diversification Division, Safe & Healthy Working, Learn Direct and learndirect scotland for business also made the trip to Killin, keen to engage with the local business community.

    An iPOD Nano was kindly donated by learndirect scotland for business and the lucky winner drawn from the hat was Elaine Turner of the Breadalbane Virtual Learning Centre.

    STEP's extended Roadshow programme for 2006/7 is being part-funded by Equal, a European Social fund scheme.  As part of this activity, STEP Business Gateway will be accessible in a different rural community every month across Stirling.  STEP will be stationed at Strathblane Library on Thursday, 27th April and accessible in Fintry (venue tbc) at the end of May. 
     

    Spring 2006  

    STEP Business Start-Up Advice Bridges The Language Barrier

    STEP Business Gateway Start-Up Adviser, Jim Fraser, was presented with an interesting invitation recently.  He was asked to address a group of 50 students attending the Stirling School of English based at the Argyll Centre on Princes Street in Stirling.  Attendees of the school come from a variety of backgrounds and countries including Iran, China, Poland and Czechoslovakia.  

     

     

    Jim spent time with the students describing the services available to anyone thinking about going down the self-employment route.  Students also learned about the £1,000 Business Start-Up grant available for those aged 18-30.

    Many of the school's students are incredibly well educated and skilled but, due to the language barrier, struggle to fully utilise their skills in employment locally.  The Stirling School of English helps students get to grips with the English language and to undergo citizenship training. 
     

      Spring 2006

     

     

     

    Stirling Businesses Encouraged To   'Focus On Growth'

    Four local businesses have put their weight behind a campaign to help Stirling area businesses realise their growth potential by agreeing to star in a new-look promotional leaflet to promote the scheme in 2006.

    The Focus On Growth programme, co-ordinated and run by Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway and funded by Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley, is an exciting programme designed to help small to medium sized businesses unlock and realise their true growth potential.

    Under the scheme, an experienced Business Adviser will take the business through a review process highlighting strengths and weaknesses.  Help is then given to act on results, with grants available in appropriate cases.

    STEP Executive Director, Derek Gavin:

    "We are delighted that these four businesses have agreed to endorse our Focus On Growth programme.  Clearly, their experiences from taking part have been positive and there has been measurable impact on their business activity.

    "We firmly believe that there can be no better way of communicating the benefits of this worthwhile scheme to the local business community, than by holding up real businesses, who have gained real benefits and who are happy to stand up and articulate that experience to fellow business people.

    "Between April 2004 and the end March 2005, STEP Business Gateway Advisers performed 118 business health checks on existing businesses Stirling-wide.  The message that we are sending out loud and clear to businesses who haven't yet heard about or accessed the scheme, is that they should come forward and talk to our Advisers about what it can do for them."

    Winter 2005  
    ILA LAUNCH SUCCESS

    Around 50 people made it along to STEP on Thursday, November 17th to find out more about Individual Learning Accounts (ILAs) and the availability of funding for training.

    Having ILA representatives present to talk to attendees on the day proved a big draw. Not only were Advisers able to demonstrate the range of courses available through the website, but they were able to help attendees start the application process.
     

    A number of agencies joined the afternoon / evening event including Learn Direct, Careers Scotland, Employment Connections and the Stirling Area Local Learning Partnership.

    ILA Scotland is a Scottish Executive scheme which is available to everyone over 18 and living in Scotland. People earning £15,000 a year or less can apply for up to £200 a year towards a range of courses while people earning more than £15,000 can get up to £100 a year towards computer courses. The money is not a loan and does not have to be paid back. Learners pay a minimum of £10 towards their learning.

    ILA-approved courses on offer at STEP include PC Passport, ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence), Sage Accounting and First Class Confidence.

    For further information on training or on how to access YOUR ILA funding entitlement, contact Kristeen Carroll on 01786 463416 or e-mail kcarroll@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

       
      Winter 2005

    Provost Colin O'Brien (centre) is flanked by Drymen Roadshow event attendees Mr & Mrs Cottam of Loch Lomond Leisure Ltd, Balmaha. STEP Client Manager, Yvonne Edmond is pictured (left) along with STEP Special Projects Officer, Kristeen Carroll (right).

    The Cottam's are the driving force behind an exciting project that will transform the former Loch Lomond Garden Centre site at Balmaha into a luxury waterfront development, including eleven lodges, a restaurant and retail outlet.

     

    BUSINESS EVENT WELL RECEIVED BY DRYMEN COMMUNITY

    The Winnock Hotel in Drymen was a hive of business activity on 26th October with local people turning out in force to access a wide range of business information and support from a variety of agencies and organisations.

    Anticipating a good turnout on the day, four business advisers were made available by event organisers, Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, to field appointments on both the business start-up and growth fronts.

    This foresight proved to be well founded, with Business Advisers working there way through a total of 31 appointments.

    IT proved an exceptionally popular choice among event attendees with many keen to access advice on a variety of web-related activities.

    Partner agencies who supported the event were also well utilised by attendees with VisitScotland, the Inland Revenue, the Scottish Executive Environment & Rural Affairs Dept (SEERAD) and Business Gateway Information Officers proving popular with event goers.

    LearnDirect, the Royal Bank of Scotland, The Energy Savings Trust and Safe & Healthy Working were also well received on the day.
     

    Summer 2005  

    1984 - 2005

    STEP CELEBRATE 21 YEARS OF ASSISTING
    THE LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY
     

    The STEP team raise a glass to the future

     

    Spring 2005

    NEW BUSINESS START-UP ADVISER
    FOR STEP
     

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) is delighted to welcome a new addition to the Business Gateway start-up team.

    Jim Fraser, 58, will join existing Business Advisers, Frank Dunne and Bob Ballantyne, providing practical advice and assistance to anyone living in the Stirlingshire area with a desire to set up in business.

    With a background in banking, followed by over 10 years as a Business Adviser working in both Edinburgh and West Lothian, Jim brings with him a wealth of experience and business start-up know-how.

    “ Over the years I have dealt with a wide spectrum of business ideas, in fact, I don’t think there’s a business idea you could put in front of me that I haven’t seen before.

    “I’m looking forward to putting this bank of knowledge and experience to good use within the Stirling area and would encourage anyone thinking about starting up in business, to make STEP Business Gateway their first port of call. The service is free, extensive and openly available.”

     

    Spring 2005  

    Pictured centre is Bob Ballantyne, regional co-ordinator for Shell LiveWIRE and Business Adviser for Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway.
    Shell LiveWIRE Winners Put Their Best Feet Forward

    Alison Hill and Alison McInnes, both 26 and from Falkirk, have been named winners in the Shell LiveWIRE Central Scotland Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2005.

    Their business, Haliem Footwear, fought off stiff competition from a shortlist of 8 other young entrepreneurs from across the Central Scotland region who have recently started up their own businesses.
     

    The two Alison’s identified a niche in the Falkirk market for quality footwear and accessories that were a ‘little bit special’. Based on this success, they already have plans to open a second shop in another area.

    Shell Livewire is a support service for all 16 to 30 year-old considering starting, or already running a small business. Shell founded & has supported LiveWIRE for more than 20 years, & the programme has now been implemented in more than 20 countries worldwide.
     

     

    Spring 2005

    £1,000 Business Start-up Grant Just The Job For Young Stirling Entrepreneurs

     

    The new £1,000 business start-up grant for 18 – 30 years olds, launched by Scottish Enterprise in October 2004, has been given the thumbs up by young entrepreneurs in the Stirling area.

    Pictured above are twenty-four year old Angela Nazeer of Taste Budz and thirty-year old Sarah Rollins of Bravado Underwear Ltd - two of the first recipients from the Stirling area to benefit from the grant.

    Derek Gavin, Executive Director, STEP Business Gateway:

    “The ‘Grand Says You Can’ campaign is one that has certainly captured the imaginations of youngsters across Scotland. Here in Stirling we have noticed a renewed sense of optimism amongst those coming through the door with plans to venture down the self-employment route. When you combine this grant with the additional support and financial assistance available for 18 – 26 year olds through the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT), you could say that, jointly, we are creating a springboard for future success.”

    Angela Nazeer, Taste Budz

    Angela Nazeer (24) really has made a ‘fresh start’. Based at Maxwell Place, Stirling, Taste Budz is fully halal, all food is freshly prepared daily and, thanks to the open-plan layout of the shop, you can even watch it being prepared while you wait. The takeaway also offers a delivery service.

    Sarah Rollins, Bravado Underwear Ltd

    From her Baker Street boutique, Sarah Rollin (30) has plugged a gap in the market for quality underwear at affordable prices. With pram and wheelchair friendly, spacious changing areas, a wide selection of stylish stock and an ordering service available, Sarah’s business is going from strength-to-strength.

     

    Spring 2005  
    Technology Top Of The Agenda At STEP

    Raymond O'Hare, Microsoft's first Director for Scotland was on front-line duty in Stirling last month. He joined representatives from I.T. solutions provider, Integral Arm (the event organisers) and Cisco to advise local businesses about how best to manage their I.T. requirements to aid the growth process.

    The event attracted a healthy turnout, with many seizing the opportunity to chat to speakers after the presentation.

     

      Spring 2005
    Kippen Roadshow Success

    Kippen’s status as something of an entrepreneurial ‘hot-spot’ was in evidence last Wednesday, 23rd March, when locals turned out in force to access a range of business information and support on offer throughout the day at The Inn at Kippen.

     

    The open-day event allowed local businesses and would-be entrepreneurs a vital opportunity to meet business advisers and access expert I.T. advice. The event also brought together, under one roof, a range of additional advice and information in the form of the Inland Revenue, Safe & Healthy Working, SEERAD and Lloyds TSB.
    The Scottish Enterprise Broadband Bus proved something of a hit with locals, with many seizing the opportunity to get up to speed with the benefits of broadband before the village and surrounding areas ‘go live’ in July this year.

    STEP Executive Director Derek Gavin:

    “Events like this one at Kippen bring to the fore, the depth and breadth of entrepreneurial activity at work in small rural communities. Much of the time this goes on unseen. Our goal is to encourage and develop this mindset and alert individuals to the support and assistance that STEP Business Gateway and other agencies are here to offer.”

       
    Spring 2005  
    Lunchtime Date with Alistair Darling and Anne McGuire proves an attractive proposition...

    Local business representatives turned out in force to attend a special lunch hosted by Anne McGuire, MP for Stirling last week.

    Attendees were then treated to an hour long question and answer session that saw Alistair Darling, Secretary of State for Scotland, address questions on a range of subjects matters.

    Alistair Darling and Anne McGuire also seized the opportunity to meet with STEP tenants, Learning IT and Logoxpres.

    Pictured from left to right, new STEP chair Morag Shepperd, the Rt. Hon. Alistair Darling, Secretary of State and Anne McGuire, MP for Stirling.

    The timely visit also co-incided with STEP's 21st anniversary year, so we couldn't resist the opportunity to mark the occasion.

    Derek Gavin, Executive Director:

    "Obviously for Stirling Enterprise (STEP) 21 years is a landmark date that we are extremely proud to have reached. We were delighted that Anne McGuire MP and the Rt. Hon. Alistair Darling, Secretary of State for Scotland, were able to take time out of their busy schedules to mark the occasion."

     

    Winter 2004


    NEW BUSINESS ADVISER FOR STEP 

    Stirling businesses are set to benefit from the addition of a new business adviser to the Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway team. 
    Thirty-seven year old George Drever will strengthen the Business Growth team, advising established businesses - through the Focus On Growth programme - about the best way to unlock their potential and grow.

     
    Winter 2004

    Stirling Women Encouraged To Mind Their Own Businesses 

    Self-employment is increasingly becoming the career option of choice for women living in the Stirling area, reports Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway.

    Statistics for the organisation show that an impressive 43% of new businesses to emerge last year (2003 - 4) can be attributed to women, with figures to date suggesting that this trend shows no sign of declining.

    Derek Gavin, STEP Executive Director:

    "The news is definitely encouraging, but not altogether surprising. Many women now view self-employment as a very real option for better career advancement and an opportunity to reap better financial rewards.

    "Month-on-month we are seeing more and more women enrolling on our business start-up courses held here at STEP. With the option of attending either daytime or evening classes, we believe this flexibility suits women who often have childcare and existing work commitments.

    "High-profile, strong Scottish female role models in the form of the Ann Gloags and Michelle Mones of this world, have had a significant part to play in boosting the confidence of women thinking about setting up in business."

    "Add to this, from a more local perspective, an easily accessible support network offered by Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley through networks like Women In To Business and Business Mentoring programmes and it's not hard to see why women are increasingly making their presence felt in the entrepreneurial arena."

    Winter 2004

    learndirect scotland for business
    E-Learning Event Success 

    On October 27th, STEP played host to a visit by learndirect scotland for business who were keen to engage with local businesses and demonstrate the merits of e-learning.

    The event, which ran from 5pm - 7pm was well-attended with 26 people making it along.

    Susan Rees, Training Partner with learndirect scotland for business, and two colleagues were kept busy in the 2-hour time slot, giving demonstrations and answering any questions attendees had. 

    All those who attended, qualified for a complimentary £50 training voucher which entitles them to fully trial two on-line courses of their choice from a selection of 500 subjects.

    Couldn't attend, but would like to find out more? Then contact Susan Rees on susanr@learndirectscotland.com or log on to the website www.lds4b.com
    Winter 2004

    COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2004

    It's no secret that Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway has a keen and vested interest in community newspapers. Given Stirling's sprawling geographical spread, the 27 community newspapers that exist throughout the region, collectively form a key mode of communication for reaching into the heart of local communities and flying the STEP Business Gateway flag.

    On October 1st, Stirling Enterprise (STEP) were fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to sponsor 
    the 'Newcomer of the Year' Award. Winners, Cornton Comment, pictured above, came out tops in this category - despite having just produced their third edition - and were delighted to pick up their award.

    The Awards night was organised by the Community Newspaper Forum and Stirling Council's community learning and development service.

    STIRLING ENTERPRISE (STEP)
    CULTIVATE IMPORTANT RURAL BUSINESS LINKS

    Rural businesses received a vital boost when Stirling Enterprise (STEP) stationed itself at the Black Bull Hotel in Killearn on Tue, 28th Sept. Those already involved - as well as those keen to get involved - in the entrepreneurial scene were given a rare opportunity to access valuable information and support at this free event, being held right on their doorstep. 

    Advice on how to grow an existing business (Focus On Growth), Start-up advice and web training seminars were well attended. Representatives from the Inland Revenue, Safe & Healthy Working, and Learn Direct were also kept busy throughout the day fielding questions in their respective areas of expertise.

    Members of The Bank of Scotland's Business Banking team were also on site, keen to speak to existing members and target new ones.


    Caroline Robertson, Area Project Manager for the Farm Business Development Scheme (FBDS) with SEERAD (the Scottish Executive Environment & Rural Affairs Dept) was also in attendance on the day, viewing the event as a prime opportunity to meet face-to-face with local farmers - a key component of Stirling's rural business community.

    From when the doors opened at 9am until the event finished at 4pm, Caroline was inundated with enquiry after enquiry about grant funding. Farmers travelled from as far a field as Strathaven, Lanarkshire to find out more about this worthwhile scheme which can provide grant assistance up to 50% of eligible costs to the maximum grant ceiling of £25,000 per eligible business. Further grants are available for training connected to the project.

    STIRLING ENTERPRISE (STEP)
    PLAY HOST TO LEADING EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM 

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) played host to a visit by Peninsula, leading Employment Law and Health & Safety Specialists, on September 1st.

    Entitled 'A conference that will open your eyes to the issues that count,' Peninsula - in their two and a half hour, evening time slot - managed to do just that. 

    Speaker, Ray Wrigglesworth, proved to be knowledgeable and highly entertaining, much to the delight of attendees, bringing humour and help in equal doses to an otherwise daunting range of subject matters:

    · Employee Rights 
    · Changes In Employment Legislation
    · How To Cut Through Employment Red Tape 
    · How Employment Tribunals work
    · The increasing rise in the number of Employment Tribunals
    · Increased compensation awards 
    · How to protect your business against Employment Tribunal awards.

    Representatives from 19 Stirling companies - all STEP Business Gateway clients - attended on the evening, with many, who were unable to attend, requesting Peninsula information packs.

     

    PHOTOSHOP TRAINING 
    PERFECT PICS FOR THE WEB AND FOR PRINT 

    Do you puzzle over how to make the best of your pics for web or print purposes?

    Stirling Enterprise (STEP) may have the solution.

    Recognising the need for affordable, easily-accessible Adobe Photoshop training, STEP will open their doors to both businesses and the general public to offer a series of one-day training seminars.

    Derek Gavin, Executive Director, STEP :
    "Currently, you would have to travel to either Glasgow or Edinburgh to access Photoshop training. We want to encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of this opportunity, whether they live in Stirling or the surrounding areas. For £125 (+VAT) and with lunch included in the price, we are confident of being able to offer delegates both a high standard of training and real value for money. "

    The next 1-Day Training Seminar is scheduled for 17th Nov, 2004 and runs from 09.30am - 16.30pm.

    TRAINING AT STEP...
    YOUR WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY 

    Stirling businesses are benefiting from I.T. and Business Skills training courses - on offer throughout the year - at Stirling Enterprise (STEP).

    Last year an impressive   1, 276 delegates signed up to take part on courses, which range from 2-hour free seminars to full-day sessions.

    Part of the success for this increased uptake, is that STEP has been quick to 'move with the times', pinpointing the changing needs of businesses operating in today's hi-tech climate and translating this in to a meaningful, relevant training programme. At the same time, STEP has not lost sight of core business requirements - and so the staples remain very much in place in the form of Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint. These courses are delivered at beginners, intermediate and advanced level. 

    Business Skills day courses have proved a must in recent years, keeping businesses abreast of important Employment Law and Health & Safety obligations as well as - more generally - equipping employees with the type of skills to make them better at their jobs; Customer Care, Assertiveness, Negotiation Skills, Sales Presentation Skills, Leadership and Teambuilding and Time & Stress Management. Courses to give newcomers the edge are also on offer in the form of Advertising and Promoting Your Business and an Introduction to Marketing.

    The European Computing Driving Licence (ECDL) is fast becoming the most widely recognised qualification in the field of work-related computer use. STEP continues to acknowledge this development by running courses - in conjunction with Stirling Council - throughout the year. 

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