BUSINESS owners in Falmouth and the surrounding area are being encouraged to sign up to a new ‘walk and talk’ networking programme.
Aimed at boosting connections, opportunities and optimism for local entrepreneurs in today’s challenging economic climate, the ‘Netwalks’ programme will bring business owners together for a more informal style of networking.
Following a successful pilot earlier this year, which saw hundreds of business owners take part in Netwalks across the country, Small Business Britain and BT have now expanded the programme to more locations across the UK.
One of the aims of the project is to tackle the isolation felt by many business owners, who can often spend a lot of time working alone. Almost four-fifths (79%) said taking part in a Netwalk during the pilot programme had a positive effect on their mental health, and 97% said they would recommend other business owners get involved.
A series of Netwalks will take place in the town over the next eight months, which will be run by local small business leader Katherine George founder of Oh So Social.
As well as a gentle walk in the great outdoors, each Netwalk will conclude in a local café, to provide a chance to chat, build connections and exchange ideas and advice over free coffee and cake.
Trained digital skills mentors representing BT will also join each of the walks, so businesses can benefit from advice on a variety of topics including business strategy, cyber security, new revenue streams and collaboration.
“When times are tough and small business owners are being pulled in lots of different directions, networking can slip down the priority list,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain.
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“But taking time away from the desk, chatting with other entrepreneurs and prioritising mental health is incredibly important, and generally leads to better business too. We know from the pilot of this programme that the Netwalks have lots of benefits, so I’d encourage small business owners in Falmouth to get involved”
Chlöe Sparkes, the founder of personalised jewellery company Dudley and Roo, attended a Netwalk as part of the pilot programme earlier this year: "It can be really lonely working by yourself, especially when there’s no-one to bounce ideas off, so meeting up with people in the same position as me was amazing!
"Carving out time for myself can be hard and it can make me feel guilty, so it was really nice to do something work-related and also social at the same time.
"Not everyone loves traditional networking, so doing something a bit different like this was such a boost, and the change of scenery, fresh air and exercise did wonders for me! I’ll definitely be coming to more Netwalks."
Chris Sims, MD Small and Medium Business, BT said: "Netwalks are a great opportunity to meet and share ideas with other small businesses over a healthy walk and a well-earned coffee.
"We’ve been delighted with the response and have enjoyed meeting a huge variety of businesses, making Netwalks a key part of our BT Skills For Tomorrow programme."
The next Netwalk will be taking place on 16 June To sign up visit: https://smallbusinessbritain.uk/netwalks
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