Havering Council are urging residents to sign up to a life-changing two-week training course that provides participants with the support and tools to start a business.
The Council is working in partnership with Wates Residential to deliver one of the capital’s biggest regeneration projects over the next 12-15 years.
As part of that project, there will be investment in education, training and skills to support the commitment to deliver a borough-wide legacy.
The free Pop-Up Business School, which runs across the UK and is visiting Havering for the first time in May, helps potential entrepreneurs and small businesses kick-start their careers, teaching a range of work-related skills.
Funding for the course comes from Wates Giving, the charitable arm of the Wates Family Enterprise Trust.
It follows a grant application from Havering Council’s joint venture partner, Wates Residential, and is designed to bring additional benefits of regeneration to the community.
The two-week course will run from 13 to 24 May 2019 in the Mercury Mall, Romford.
The training schedule includes a mix of practical sessions, one-to-one coaching, workshop sessions and peer support.
Workshop topics include starting a business without investment, sales and marketing, building a free website and how to find customers.
Over 50 people have signed up already.
Find out more about Pop Up Business School
Councillor Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said:
“This is another example of how we as a Council are committed to increasing opportunities for local residents and including them throughout the entire build process. Our ambitious regeneration plans aren’t just about bricks and mortar.
“I want all our residents to fully realise their ambition and potential and encourage Havering entrepreneurs to take full advantage of this practical business training on offer.”
Kate Ives, Development Director for Wates Residential, said:
“We are committed to increasing opportunities for local residents through our partnership with Havering Council. This free two-week business course will have a tangible impact on the lives of participants and I look forward to hearing about everyone’s ideas and seeing the innovative businesses that are kick-started as a result.”
Alex Meade, Lead Project Manager for the Pop-Up Business School, said:
“We believe would-be entrepreneurs don’t need a complex business plan, expensive legal advice and a frighteningly big business loan; just an idea, some basic marketing skills and plenty of passion.
“It would be fantastic if some people went on to start their own business as a result of the course, but there are also lots of other benefits in terms of picking up new skills, gaining confidence and understanding more about the opportunities on offer.”