Residents with ambitions to start their own retail business are being encouraged to take advantage of two free programmes launching this summer, designed to provide practical support, expert advice and the confidence to take the next step into self-employment.
Torfaen Business Direct is introducing Entrepreneurship at 50+ and Ready to Trade: Torfaen, two tailored programmes aimed at helping aspiring entrepreneurs develop the skills and knowledge needed to turn their ideas into thriving businesses.
The Entrepreneurship at 50+ programme is specifically designed for people aged 50 and over who are considering starting a business. Running at Cwmbran Jobcentre from Wednesday 12 August to Wednesday 2 September between 10am-12pm, participants will receive support and inspiration, learn business planning, finance and marketing skills, and benefit from networking opportunities and expert guidance.
Meanwhile, Ready to Trade: Torfaen, is aimed at individuals with a business idea, product or creative venture who want to develop the skills needed to start selling successfully.
The four-week programme takes place every Thursday from 6 August to 27 August at Cwmbran Centre and covers customer identification, market testing, pricing, profitability, sales techniques and business fundamentals.
Participants will also receive personalised one-to-one mentoring and the opportunity to showcase and sell their products at a live retail pop-up event in Cwmbran Centre.
Councillor Jo Gauden, Executive Member for Economy, Skills and Regeneration, said: "These programmes are a fantastic opportunity for anyone who has ever considered starting their own business but hasn't known where to begin.
“Whether you're looking for a new challenge later in life or are ready to turn a business idea into a reality, the support available through Torfaen Business Direct can help you build the confidence, skills and connections needed to succeed.
“Supporting local entrepreneurs is vital to strengthening our economy, creating opportunities and helping our communities thrive."
Jeanette Savil, who launched Welsh Walkies, a dog-walking business, this year with support from the Torfaen Business Direct Team, said: “The support I’ve received has been fantastic. Earlier this year, I attended a course delivered by the Torfaen Business Direct Team, because I had a business idea but wasn’t sure how to turn it into reality.
“The course was incredibly insightful and gave me the confidence to take the next step and start my business. The team has been supportive throughout the entire process, and nothing has ever been too much trouble.
“They guided me through the training and qualifications I needed to complete and provided valuable support with my business planning.
“I’m also part of a WhatsApp group with other people who are at a similar stage in their business journey, which has been a great source of advice, encouragement and support.
“If you’ve been thinking about starting a business but don’t know where to begin, the Torfaen Business Direct courses are an excellent place to start.”
Both programmes are free to attend and form part of Torfaen Business Direct’s wider support offer for residents looking to explore self-employment, develop new skills or grow a business idea.
The Entrepreneurship at 50+ programme is being delivered in collaboration with Business Wales and Jobcentre Plus, and the Ready to Trade:Torfaen course will be delivered in partnership with M Cwmbran and Torfaen Food for Growth.
The programmes are funded by the UK Government and delivered as part of Torfaen County Borough Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting economic growth and entrepreneurship across the borough.