Local MP Justin Tomlinson was joined by star of the Apprentice, Neil Clough, and the Mayor of Swindon in congratulating Outset Swindon at its successful 'Building Business Connections Forum.'
The Forum was held at the Blunsdon House Hotel and provided an opportunity for all of the businesses which Outset Swindon has helped to set-up, to showcase their talents and network with other budding entrepreneurs.
Outset Swindon is a not-for-profit initiative delivering the multi-award winning Outset service that offers enterprise coaching, personal development and business start-up training to individuals. To date, the Outset service has enabled the creation of over 3,000 businesses across the UK.
Here in Swindon, there have been 5,354 new business start-ups since 2010. Outset has helped 100 of those local people who have often faced barriers to enterprise - whether through disability, long-term unemployment or prejudice - become a part of that fantastic growth figure.
The Forum saw a collection of new enterprises on show, including 'Washroom Choices,' a bathroom supplier set up by two students who recently completed their A-levels, and 'Brie's Beauty,' a collection of innovative and healthy body-creams and washes. Particularly popular was the selection of cakes provided by the 'Little Miss Cake Maker' business, as well as the beautiful African food on offer from 'Mamma Afrika,' a new store which is set to open in Swindon.
Justin Tomlinson MP: "I have long been a supporter of Outset Swindon. As a former business owner myself, I appreciate how daunting and nerve-wracking it can be when you decide to set-up your own business. That's why I am constantly praising those who have gone through Outset and taken the plunge to go it alone, it is those people who go on to create jobs and support our local economy. Just by being at the Forum I was delighted to see the exciting mix of new businesses that we have on offer in our town; from African street food, to skin nourishing body creams, It was certainly an honour to spend time meeting all of the owners and hearing their stories."
