NORTH EAST LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and business owners who want to move their idea to the next level can get some expert advice at a special event next week (17 June).
As part of Pride In Sunderland – which is running throughout the month – organisers Out North East has teamed up with the North East BIC to run a special drop in event.
And that’s good news for anyone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community who either has a start up idea or who needs some help with an existing business.
The event is being held at the Holiday Inn, Keel Square from 10am to 4pm, where anyone interested can call in and get free advice and information on available support and financial assistance.
Peter Darrant of Out North East is hoping that people will take up the opportunity.
“The BIC are experts on all kinds of business advice so we are delighted that they are supporting this new event,” he said.
“It’s a very informal setting but it gives anyone who may have thought of setting up a business but has no idea of the next steps to get invaluable information.
“We are very grateful to the BIC for supporting us and hopefully inspiring members of our community to turn their dreams into a reality.”
A report published last year by Out Britain highlighted the value that LGBTQ+ businesses bring to the UK.
Currently there are more than 250,000 LGBTQ+ companies, employing around 750,000 people and contributing £106b to the UK economy.
These include both LGBTQ+ owned and run businesses, covering sectors such as media, theatre, airlines, health and technology.
The hope is now that next week’s event will help create the next generation of entrepreneurs and employers.
Hina Joshi, Lead Business Adviser at the North East BIC, said: “We’re proud to support Sunderland Pride and to stand alongside the LGBTQ+ community.”
“At the BIC, we believe that a diverse and inclusive business community is a stronger one.
“Events like Pride in Your Business are all about empowering people to explore entrepreneurship in a welcoming, supportive space. Innovation flourishes when individuals feel confident to be themselves – and we’re here to help make that possible for every aspiring entrepreneur.”
To find out more about North East BIC visit www.ne-bic.co.uk
The full programme of events at Pride In Sunderland are available at www.outnortheast.org.uk
