Coaches will be encouraging risk-taking

Nov 16 2007 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

NINETEEN business coaches have been appointed as part of a £10m drive to create a risk-taking culture in some of the County Durham’s most disadvantaged areas.

The coaches are at the heart of Be Enterprising and will work with individuals and existing small businesses to help them develop their business ideas by providing whatever support they need.

From advice and guidance on how to start a business or developing a business plan, to applying for finance, the Be Enterprising coaches will help anyone realise their ambitions and dreams to start a business.

Richard Prisk, director of regeneration and development at District of Easington council and chairman of Be Enterprising, said: “The basic premise of the business coaches is to bring business advice, hands-on support and financial assistance into some of our more economically disadvantaged communities so that individuals and community groups with a business idea can be supported to turn it into a reality.

“The Be Enterprising coaches will help individuals develop their ideas and work with them to overcome the problems of getting started, before providing ongoing support once they have started trading.”

Anyone thinking of starting up their own business and who lives in the District Council areas of Derwentside, Easington, Sedgefield or Wear Valley and would like to know more about the Be Enterprising programme or make contact with one of the Business Coaches should call 0800 030-4134.