English for Entrepreneurs

Course to teach language and practical skills needed to run a business:

• Increased competence in communicating with customers

• Strategies to resolve misunderstandings and defuse conflict

• Improved cultural sensitivity, customer service, community relations

• Increased awareness of city services available (guest speakers)

Opportunity Calls

Automated monthly information calls in several languages in order to:

• Efficiently disseminate information to merchants

• Reach those entrepreneurs with limited English skills

• Build bridges with other organisations and agencies

Market Research

Collect and analyse data about existing and potential markets in order to:

• Provide vital data about customers from within and outside area

• Assist immigrant entrepreneurs to develop market-based sales and marketing strategies

Business Clinics

Workshops held with local partners or internal business advisors to increase knowledge about:

• Laws and regulations pertinent to their businesses

• Short- and long-term business planning

• Increase access to financial institutions and expert advisers

Business Technical Assistance

Dedicated staff to provide expertise to native-born and immigrant entrepreneurs:

• Provide basic business technical assistance

• Share information about existing resources

• Make connections with financial, government, non-profit institutions

Courses

Business Training & Support: Empower the African Community

A seven weeks course to help potential entrepreneurs develop Soft & Communication skills, and the knowledge about running a Business in the UK.

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Start the 13th of June at 10:00, Baltic House

'How To' Guides

Clear, accurate business guides to help immigrant and native-born entrepreneurs to cut through the red tape of rules and regulations: 

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• Could be general or industry-specific (e.g., coffee shop)

• Could help steer entrepreneurs away from oversaturated fields

• Should be checked carefully with government officials for accuracy

• Should clearly indicate the municipality for which they apply

• Could be translated into multiple languages

Networking

Assist neighbouring entrepreneurs to work together in order to:

• Advocate to local government authorities

• Organize joint efforts for marketing, security, sanitation

• Increase buying power through group procurement