Time to support the enterprise culture

January has to be one of my favourite months of the year (apart from May of course). People are busy making plans for the year ahead, full of hope and optimism of what they can achieve in the next twelve months.

This mood of optimism is in danger of being punctured by the renewed speculation that we may be heading for a double-dip recession. I’m more of a ‘glass half full’ kind of gall myself and certainly when I'm meeting business owners I don't get the sense that the situation as a whole isn’t all doom and gloom.

Through May Fifteen I work closely with a vast array of local businesses and so many have very high hopes for 2012; people are diversifying, forming mutually beneficial relationships, and collaborating on new projects leading to opportunities that were previously out of reach.  

This week the Government also launched their new scheme ‘Business in You’, a “partnership between private enterprise and Government with the aim to highlight support for start-ups and growing businesses and encourage entrepreneurial spirit in 2012." This may be a very positive project; putting faith into the entrepreneurial capabilities of the nation. But the question is; is this going to be simply a resource of inspirational stories and information, or actual practical advice, funding and support? 

On a more local note, the Federation of Small Businesses also launched a new campaign with the aim of supporting the small business community. MP Rory Stewart has shown his support for the ‘Real-Life Entrepreneurs’ campaign; once again showing the importance of encouraging an enterprise based economy. 

Having started a business myself I know the importance of having the right information and support; something I truly believe is currently lacking in our region. It seems to only be available when the right boxes are being ticked or government funding is given to certain associations. 

We can also create more of an enterprise culture in our area by working with young people, & encouraging them to see starting a business as a viable option for their future as well as showing them how exciting and rewarding it can be. 

It can be very easy for business owners to put their heads in the sand; but by getting out there and talking to other people in business not only will you potentially get more clients, you’ll also create a support system offering advice, information, and make valuable contacts. In my experience some of the best ideas and relationships come from a couple of people simply chatting, and sharing stories over a couple of beers.