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- by @inc
- 20-06-2023
CYBER ATTACK ROOMS Head to @Inc and MENTA Business HubsAs part of the West Suffolk Business Festival 2023, both MENTA and @Inc.Suffolk have teamed up with the Norfolk & Suffolk Cybercrime unit to invite you to step into the shoes of a detective and race against time to solve a case.We have Escape Room events in Haverhill, Brandon and Bury St EdmundsOur escape room will test your knowledge, problem solving skills and teamwork. The escape room is a fun way to help participants understand how their Cyber security and digital footprint could put them at risk, the session concludes by highlighting key cyber threats to local business and highlighting useful national approved resources to help you improve your companies resilience to cyber-attacks.Workshop overview:Workshops normally combine a number of the different elements we offer (see attached flyer), for example a recent business networking session included: Introduction (10 minutes)Cyber Escape Room (40 minutes)Debrief and general business cyber awareness (40 mins) The session includes basic introduction to the following threat areas:· Social engineering· Phishing· Account compromise / business email compromise· RansomwareIt then provided mitigation strategies to help individuals and businesses provide resilience against these threats, highlighted nationally approved and freely accessible resources like the National Cyber Security Centres Cyber Aware Action Plan, The Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre and Police Cyber Alarm. Case studies and local examples are used to give context to the attacks.Have you considered your personal and company cyber security risk? We use technology for lots of everyday functions but is your technology and/or your digital behaviours leaving you vulnerable to becoming a victim of cybercrime? This session will highlight some basic threats to individuals and businesses and help you become better protected against cybercrime.BOOK HEREhttps://store.menta.org.uk/products/cyber-escape-rooms-west-suffolk-business-festival
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NatWest Accelerator is now OPEN for applications for the September cohort
- by @inc
- 15-06-2023
NatWest Accelerator is now OPEN for applications for the September cohort Enterprise is an area that clearly defines NatWest. As the UK’s biggest bank for business, we understand that SMEs are the lifeblood of the economy and that we have a responsibility to help them build back better.At the heart of our support for business owners is our comprehensive Accelerator programme including coaching, insight and mentoring specifically designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs who want to grow their business, regardless of geographic location or sector.We provide successful applicants with wrap-around care, thought leadership, connectivity and access to our shared workspace (in 14 UK locations or an entirely digital journey); all crucial for their success and a strong national economy.We know that every business owner is different and that the motivations for scaling a business can vary greatly. We also recognise the power of being surrounded by a network of likeminded individuals and specialists. Developed over the past seven years, these programmes have revolutionised the way we support entrepreneurs, and has proven to really work. Timeline:The programme starts with an IGNITION event w/c September 11th 2023 and extends over six months with fortnightly events, opportunities and monthly 121, peer to peer and group coaching sessions.There is an option to reapply for up to 18 months of support in total, with the first six months open to non-banked customers.Applications for this intake will close August 18th, interviews will take place throughout the entire application window. Places are limited. Applications:Ready to apply? Click this link, register, then complete the short application form. Please see our website for eligibility criteria, terms and conditions. Find out more: We understand that prospective applicants may have questions, want to better understand what’s on offer and meet the team, so we have created some virtual Application Discovery Events that can be found here. Plus you can request a 121 call with your local enterprise manager Ricke Williams by emailing ricke.williams@natwest.com or pop along to our Petty Cury Enterprise Space and meet events manager Andy Bishop; both of whom will be happy to help.
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Hong Kong Entrepreneurs in Bury St Edmunds
- by @inc
- 09-06-2023
Hong Kong Entrepreneurs in Bury St Edmunds aims to save up to 30% on energy bills Having had a business in Hong Kong providing smart home solutions to their clients, Desmond and Karen were keen to offer energy saving solutions and benefits to the UK, particularly with the current economic and energy challenges. Through using IoT technology, smart devices can be installed at household for automating existing heat radiators in order to save up to 30% on energy bills. Keen to build their business, Desmond and Karen registered their business GoCO in the UK in July 2022, at the same time joining the Hong Kong BNO Business programme run by MENTA and funded by the East of England Local Government Association (EELGA), Strategic Migration Partnership. The "Brilliant Energy Saver" solution, as introduced by their Award-winning company, is an innovative solution to make traditional heat radiator smart and integrated with smart human sensor technology for enabling automation on the existing heat radiator and boiler in order to avoid wasting energy. The solution is also environmental-friendly to reduce carbon footprint through minimizing energy usage, providing a one-time installation but allowing saving permanently in the long run.They aim to build a comfortable smart home solution for their customers through one-stop smart home services, including solutions design, providing and installing high-quality smart products, consulting and technical support, while customers can save time, money, protect the life and property of their family members. The focus is on creating a safer living environment for their clients and a more convenient and comfortable home for a better life!Desmond and Karen are not only focused on helping residential clients save on their energy bills but are also keen to partner up with housebuilders and construction companies who also want to provide savings to their customers. To learn more about GoCO and the services they offer: visit them here https://www.gocoworld.com/aboutusDesmond’s feedback to the support of the programme and support received by MENTA Business Support:"The Hong Kong BNO Business programme delivered by MENTA is excellent stuff that can really help Hongkongers to build up their business in UK more efficiently through the whole series of well-developed training courses, so that we are able to get familiar with the new business environment. The support from 1 to 1 business advisor is very helpful in which our individual needs can be catered for and addressed promptly due to different business requirements. Appreciate their work very much"
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- by @inc
- 05-06-2023
A brand-new concept in networking Women @Inc Felixstowe - The Importance of Celebration @Inc.Suffolk in Felixstowe are proud to announce the first of a series of events specifically designed with the busy woman in mind! An informal opportunity to meet, communicate, support, encourage and empower in an exciting environment in the town centre of Felixstowe. Employed, self-employed, seeking employment, caring for others, or just needing the company of like minds, the events will provide interesting speakers, and stimulating discussions in an open space environment at convenient times for busy women. The pilot event takes place on Tuesday 13 June at 9.30 and will take the form of part storytelling, part workshop. This life affirming event for women: The Importance of Celebration facilitates connection, collaboration and ownership of success. Betty Adamou is an award-winning entrepreneur, founder of the #NotSorryClub and she promises tears of laughter and joy as we explore how we need to celebrate more and how to do it. Refreshments will be served and at a ticket price of just £7.50 it will be a fabulous opportunity to network and check out the surprising facilities at @Inc on 87 Hamilton Road Felixstowe IP11 7BQ Tickets are still available on https://bit.ly/INCcelebrate - don’t miss out!
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Over 20m people in the UK are currently affected by depression or anxiety disorders
- by @inc
- 18-05-2023
Over 20m people in the UK are currently affected by depression or anxiety disorders According to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE), over 20m people in the UK are currently affected by depression or anxiety disorders, with men and women being affected almost equally. The cost of treating mental health issues is one reason why HR departments aren’t doing enough to support those suffering from mental ill-health and this has led experts like Professor Dame Clare Marx to call for a new focus on corporate wellbeing.We all wish to be happy and sometimes it’s even the main purpose of our lives. And yet, we don’t always manage to achieve this goal and there are numerous reasons for that. Money issues, health problems, kids at school – all these little things seem terribly significant when you can’t achieve some normality in your life or have trouble living with yourself as a human being. But what should really matter is whether we feel good about ourselves as people.As small business owners, we’re used to wearing multiple hats; we are the HR manager, the accountant, the sales and marketing director; we make the products, we deliver the services, we make the tea.The pandemic for many of us feels like it has passed, for those it affected most, the ramifications in health or loss remain. It placed an additional demand on our superhuman shape-shifting abilities. As well as that of “business owner”, we are now required to don the guise of “schoolteacher”, “carer”, “master baker” to name a few – spandex costumes optional. With this extra weight on our shoulders, dedicating time and attention to our emotional wellbeing has never been more vital. Mental health is the lynchpin for fulfilling and sustaining all of these roles. It gives us the strength, energy, optimism and resilience to keep going. Therefore, at uncertain times such as these, it is vital to keep the principles for emotional wellbeing top of mind.Five Ways to Wellbeing The Five Ways to Wellbeing approach was originally developed by the New Economics Foundation in 2008 and has since formed the basis for mental health initiatives worldwide.These six steps to improving mental health and wellbeing provide a valuable foundation for business owners, start-ups and freelancers feeling the demands of what we are being told to accept as “the new normal”.Let’s get started: 1. Connect with othersHuman connections are a vital business resource that is well worth the investment of time. As highlighted in my previous blog “Channelling creativity”, when you’re without colleagues a business buddy can act as a sounding board for discussing and testing ideas, but also as an empathetic ear for sharing frustrations. Connecting with others can also take the form of collaboration. Partnering with a business that complements your company or (deep breath) competes with your business on a project for mutual growth and gain is hugely rewarding and motivating. And there are many virtual channels open to you to make these connections – from video networking, webinars and online courses to expanding your network via industry directories, social media and LinkedIn. Now, proudly don your most colourful hat, introduce yourself and keep the lines of communication open. 2. Be activeRegular physical activity has been proven to enhance your mood, so why is it so difficult to get going or to find time in the day to dedicate to it? One word, guilt. “How can I possibly walk the dog/go for a run/do an at-home dance workout when I have a business to run?” I hear you ask. “By building it into your workday routine and adding it to your “to-do” list”, I reply.Plus, there are tangible business benefits (not to mention the health and fitness benefits). Physical activity allows you to gain perspective; you are getting physical space from a work-related issue and time to develop new solutions. Similarly, exercise involves setting goals or facing challenges and achieving them through dedication and steady improvement – skills practiced daily as a small business owner. 3. Learn new skillsIn my very first blog in the Business in the Times of Corona series, I explored how to diversify your business in this drastically changed environment with one of the primary ways being to learn new skills.With temporary closures, reduced operations or projects coming to an end, now is the time to take advantage of any extra time on your hands to upskill. Expanding your understanding in your industry or exploring new areas of interest through learning gives you a sense of purpose and achievement, thereby enhancing self-confidence and self-esteem. And, as well as adding an extra feather to your cap, enrolling on an online course or webinar series is a great way to meet new people and make new connections. 4. Give to othersGiving is good for you. Acts of giving and kindness have a physiological effect; they boost your brain with endorphins, resulting in a feel-good “high”, and flood your body with oxytocin, lowering stress and heightening feelings of connection with others. Your experience as an entrepreneur and a business owner is your gift. It is invaluable insight for start-ups and fledgling businesses, so share it with them.Giving also involves gratitude. A simple thank you to family members for supporting (putting up with) you, to employees for their continued commitment and hard work, to your business buddy for their time (and their shoulder), or to your customers and clients for their loyalty is an act of kindness that cannot be underestimated. 5. Be presentBeing present involves actively taking note of the moment in which you exist now. This practice is also known as mindfulness – an almost meditative state that centres the mind and the senses in the present.Being present prevents the mind from wandering, whether worrying about the future or fixating on the past. In times such as these when we may feel powerless and that the future is an unknown beyond our control, mindfulness helps us to identify what we can achieve now and to approach tasks one at a time. It provides a sense of grounding, builds resilience when overcoming challenges and prevents feelings of being overwhelmed. 6. Be kindI’ve added a sixth step to improving emotional wellbeing – be kind to yourself. This may be interpreted more as platitude than sentiment thanks to its popularity on social media, but I think it serves as an important reminder to us all. Many of us may have manged the art of cake baking from those coronavirus lockdowns, one plank away from a new woodwork masterpiece and the bread maker never will see as much action– the fact we came out the other side, is a win. Being kind to yourself involves listening and responding to your emotional wellbeing – nurture your mental health. It also involves giving yourself time, being patient, acknowledging your achievements (no matter how small) and showing compassion when you’re struggling. Whether start-up or established small business, MENTA offers advice and information for business owners in Norfolk and Suffolk through remote one-to-one sessions with experienced coaches. Email bookings@menta.org.uk to arrange yours today.
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Are you ready for a Cyber-attack?
- by @inc
- 30-03-2023
Are you ready for a Cyber-attack? We live in a digital age. One of the biggest information security risks businesses face is the threat of cyber-attacks. Last year, 81% of reports about an email or social media hack were from small or medium businesses. The average annual cost of a cyber-attack for micro and small businesses was £3,080. So it’s really important to protect against these attacks. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is the UK’s technical authority on cyber security. At the ICO, we work alongside them to help the UK’s small businesses improve their cyber security.We’re urging small business owners to help protect the personal information they hold by using the resources NCSC have created. SMEs can take these two simple steps to help protect themselves from a variety of cyber threats: 1. Get a free Cyber Action Plan.Answer a few simple questions, and in less than five minutes, a tailored list of actions will be served to help you to protect your organisation. 2. Use the quick and easy tool, Check Your Cyber Security service.This scans internet-connected devices for common vulnerabilities to ransomware and other viruses. It provides advice on how to mitigate any risks and lets you know if your browser is up-to-date.
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- by @inc
- 28-03-2023
The StartUp Awards Bury St Edmunds-based startup Unmatched has been named a finalist for three categories ahead of the East of England Final of the StartUp Awards.The StartUp Awards was launched to recognise the booming startup scene across the UK which has accelerated since the 2019 pandemic. Over 800,000 new businesses were founded in the UK since 2021, a 4.3% increase from the year before.A record number of businesses applied to this year’s StartUp Awards, with 1,100 firms shortlisted across ten UK nations and regions. The contribution of these firms - all of which were started in the last three years - is significant, having created over 5,000 new jobs since they were established and generating annual sales of £584 million.Unmatched is a Platinum HubSpot Solutions Partner and CRM marketing agency founded by Matt Freestone in 2022. The business has been shortlisted for three awards at the East of England StartUp Awards, with the winner being announced in June. Unmatched are a finalist for: ● Digital StartUp of the Year● Marketing, Advertising & PR of the Year● Rising Star Award of the YearMatt Freestone, founder of Unmatched, said: “We at Unmatched are absolutely thrilled to be named a finalist in the prestigious East of England Final of the StartUp Awards. This recognition not only validates the hard work and dedication our team has put into our venture, but also showcases the incredible innovation that's taking place within the Bury St Edmunds community.Our growth, which includes adding two new staff members and becoming the #1 HubSpot partner in the East of England, is a testament to the impact we're making in our industry. As a finalist, we're proud to contribute to the thriving UK startup scene and represent the Bury St Edmunds business community at this upcoming event.”Supported nationally by Starling Bank, British Business Bank, BT, Creative Ideaz, GS1 UK, Jeeves, Join Talent, ScoreApp and The Purposeful Project, the programme will celebrate the achievements of the amazing individuals who have turned an idea into an opportunity and taken the risk to launch a new product or service.The cohort of finalists will be considered for the regional prizes by a panel of seasoned judges with experience founding or supporting entrepreneurial ventures.Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, the creator of the StartUp Awards, said:“Start-up businesses are the lifeblood of any economy, being responsible for new jobs, innovation and in supporting communities in every nation and region across the UK. All of the finalists this year represent the best of those entrepreneurs who have spotted an opportunity and through their sheer hard work, talent and perseverance, have created an amazing new business that is creating real impact in its sector.”The StartUp Awards was created in collaboration with the team behind the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, one of the most successful awards programmes in the UK. The StartUp Awards are running for the second year after launching in 2022.Want to know more about this Suffolk based business - contact Matt Freestone at matt@unmatched.agency MENTA has a series of new business and start-up packages - you can find details here
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Support and training for East Suffolk businesses
- by @inc
- 16-03-2023
Support and training for East Suffolk businesses Businesses in East Suffolk are encouraged to explore the wide range of business support programmes offered by East Suffolk Council. As well as a refreshed website which provides a dedicated portal for businesses in East Suffolk, there are also several new services on offer to support start-up businesses, those looking to improve energy efficiency or those looking to develop their digital skills. Comprehensive ‘start up’ support is available to anyone thinking about starting a business or who has already begun the process. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by MENTA and NWES on behalf of East Suffolk Council, the programme includes workshops and 1-to-1 support on business planning, marketing, book-keeping, sustainability, sales and more. Guidance is also available on financing a new venture and developing skills and confidence to ‘start well’ and help new businesses to flourish. East Suffolk Start-Up Support Services has received £250,196 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The programme is open to anyone based in East Suffolk who is thinking of starting a business or has started a business within the last 12 months. To enrol onto the programme, or receive further details, please email bookings@menta.org.uk. Support is also available for East Suffolk businesses hoping to create or improve their online presence. The Digital Springboard, which provides free advice, training and access to grants, is delivered by Menta and funded by East Suffolk Council alongside the LEP Innovative Projects Fund and has already successfully supported businesses with digital adaptations and upskilling. For more information and free digital insight tools please visit www.thedigitalspringboard.co.uk or email digitalspringboard@menta.co.ukBusinesses looking to improve energy efficiency or who need support with decarbonisation plans are encouraged to apply for the council’s ‘Business Move to Net Zero’ grant, which will launch on 11 April and is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Interested businesses are invited to email economicdevelopment@eastsuffolk.gov.uk for more information. East Suffolk Business Move to Net Zero grant has received £138,696 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.Cllr Craig Rivett, East Suffolk’s Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Economic Development said: “East Suffolk businesses are facing increased challenges and we want to continue to provide as much support and guidance as possible, whether this is to help build an online presence to reach more customers or for those looking to start a new venture. Regardless of size or sector, I would encourage business owners from across the district to explore the range of support services, training and grants which are available to help their business to thrive.”To enable businesses to access the range of support and advice more easily, the East Suffolk Means Business website (www.eastsuffolkmeansbusiness.co.uk) has been relaunched. As well as receiving a fresh clean look, the website also features several new tools to help businesses find information quickly and easily. This includes the Funding Finder which filters the current funding options based on the answers to three simple questions and presents the most relevant results, whilst the Growing Your Business feature selects the most relevant resources available based on chosen categories such as training, digital and net zero. The website also features business events, information on land and premises, help with starting a business, and a wealth of guidance relating to key business issues.
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Additional funding to support West Suffolk start ups
- by @inc
- 16-03-2023
Additional funding to support West Suffolk start ups West Suffolk Council have partnered with MENTA to deliver free start up business support within the district. The project received £195,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. MENTA offer business support and training across Suffolk and Norfolk, their help has assisted over 50,000 entrepreneurs develop successful businesses across the region. The West Suffolk start-up business support programme provides comprehensive support to anyone who is either thinking about starting, is in the process of starting, or has recently started a business. The programme will include a series of workshops and 1 to 1 support on a range of topics, including business planning, marketing, book-keeping, sustainability, sales and much more. MENTA can also provide guidance on financing an individual’s new venture and developing their skills and confidence to help their business to flourish. The programme is open to anyone based in West Suffolk, who is thinking of starting a business or has started a business within the last 12 months. Bookings are now open, and the programme is due to run until the 31 March 2025. If you would like to enrol onto the free programme, or require further details, please contact bookings@menta.org.uk Cllr Susan Glossop, Cabinet Member for Growth, West Suffolk Council said: “Working with MENTA to deliver this project will ensure that aspiring entrepreneurs in West Suffolk have access to the support they need to establish thriving businesses. This project aligns with our priority to support and invest in local businesses to encourage growth in the economy for the benefit of all our residents.” MENTA CEO, Alex Till said: “We are delighted to be working with West Suffolk Council to deliver this exciting programme of support. We recognise that small and micro-business are the lifeblood of the West Suffolk economy and require nurturing and support to survive and be successful. Starting a business or going self-employed is a big step and access to high quality non-biased advice and guidance is vital to help individuals & businesses ‘start well’. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
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Ipswich Shopfront grants for businesses
- by @inc
- 19-02-2023
Ipswich Shopfront grants for businesses Ipswich independent retailers will be eligible for a council grant to enhance the appearance of a town centre. For smaller businesses or landlords in Ipswich wishing to improve the appearance of their businesses, up to £2,000 would be on offer. Ipswich Borough Council spokesperson has said that projects that aim to bring vacant units back into use, encourage new businesses, or increase vibrancy will be prioritised. The grant could see outside painting work done or brick repairs, improvements to signs, fitting of new doors or windows, or disability access. Other projects considered would include the installation of outdoor covers, deep cleans, new outdoor plants, or new seating. Those businesses considering applying for a grant should have at least five years remaining on their lease and will be assessed by a council panel. Anyone interested should contact the council, via opportunities@ipswich.gov.uk National retailers, chains with more than three locations, charities, betting shops and pawnbrokers are not eligible for this grant, the council said. Cllr David Ellesmere added: This is a great opportunity for businesses and landlords to spruce up their premises and improve the customer experience. We would particularly welcome any applications that help bring vacant town centre units back into use.
