Whilst the current transformation of Business Link will undoubtedly alter the landscape of enterprise in the region, I feel it is an important time to acknowledge the wealth of support which will still exist for businesses, regardless of the wider changes being made by our existing government.
As we all know, enterprise existed, and frequently flourished before Business Link, and I have no doubt that it will continue to do so in its absence. The dynamics will of course change, but the fact is that knowledge will continue to exist, and businesses will continue to seek growth.
The resources that Business Link have provided access to, including funding, will still be available to those who have the determination to seek them out. The ‘one-stop-shop’ nature of Business Link will for now disappear, yes. But isn’t it possible that this will lead to the braver and more resilient entrepreneurs, those with comprehensive outlooks, being the ones that gain the full attention of remaining support bodies? Undoubtedly, it is these businesses which need to be nurtured if enterprise is to contribute to economic recovery.
My experience in enterprise support points to a definite need for face-to-face advice. There is not much that can compare to advice from people who have experienced building a business. At the BIC we are committed to this kind of support, so rest assured that our team of advisers will be on hand to provide sound advice and guidance to start ups, via face to face meetings and as a free service, for the foreseeable months and years.