Janette Pallas from the Northamptonshire Growth Hub
Wellingborough has a “prosperous” 2016 in store if the town fully realises its potential, according to a business leader.
David Cross, president of the Wellingborough Chamber of Commerce, made the comment following an event held in the town this week, where business leaders came together to learn about plans for economic growth and support and advice.
More than 40 owners and managers attended the chamber’s December Business Briefing, which took place at The Hind Hotel, based in the town’s Sheep Street, on Wednesday, December 16.
Chamber president David Cross said: “With our diverse array of businesses, central location and all of the dedicated support available, Wellingborough is going places.
“We believe the town is destined for a prosperous 2016 if Wellingborough fully realises its potential.”
Janette Pallas, from the Northamptonshire Growth Hub, set up to provide free business support and advice, discussed plans for new services in 2016 as well as funding opportunities.
Janette said: “Our team of professional advisers provide access to a comprehensive portfolio of business support from local and national providers. Our free service could help you to achieve your business ambitions regardless of whether you are considering starting up or already running a business or social enterprise.”
Delegates also heard about Talent Match Northamptonshire, a Big Lottery Fund supported Programme that is tackling long-term youth unemployment in Wellingborough and Kettering by helping to create jobs and training opportunities that can lead to successful outcomes for young people in the local community.
Michael Stewart, from Talent Match Northamptonshire, said the organisation had worked with 105 young people in just over a year and got more than 50 per cent of them into employment. He said: “We’re focused on long-term sustainable employment.”
Nicola Mackenzie from Wellingborough Council spoke about the borough’s economic strategy, which promotes skills and aims to position the borough as an “excellent location” and supports entrepreneurship.
The council is keen to get feedback and comments on the strategy and associated implementation plan, which also invites suggestions for additional activities. To view and comment on the document, visit www.wellingborough.gov.uk/business.