Be Central Bedfordshire - Business Newsletter 30.09.21

Date Added: 30/09/2021

Local business diversifies and continues to win awards

Despite the uncertainty of the pandemic, this year has seen many successes for Sandy based Willow Tree Distilling. They have recently been awarded a 'UK Business Hero award', for their efforts during the first lockdown and producing hand sanitiser for the local Council during a national shortage.

They signed up for membership support via Experience Bedfordshire and saw their team grow thanks to the UoB Alphas programme, which allowed them to diversify and grow. They were also a winner at the SME Bedfordshire Awards and now they have launched some gin courses where customers can come in and make their own gin.

Book on their website for team-building activities or gin courses or email the team for exclusive bookings.

Grants to help businesses recover from Covid-19

The Recovery and Resilience Grants Scheme is reopening for another round to support local businesses to help create employment opportunities. It also offers match funding to businesses to invest in:
• New technologies
• Plant equipment or machinery
• Fund land or premises growth

The grants are being administered by SEMLEP and are between £5,000 to £50,000 and are designed to build businessresilience by supporting investment projects that will create a significant impact for businesses.

Expressions of Interest start from 4th October - 18th October and further details can be found on the webpage or contact 0300 01234 35.

Natasha’s Law is coming soon: What does this mean for you?

New legal requirements which may require your business to take action are being introduced from 1 October 2021, relating to the labelling requirements for food that are prepacked for direct sale (PPDS). The new labelling will help protect consumers by providing potentially life-saving allergen information on the packaging.

For further information and links to resources, contact the Public Protection Team by email.

A helpful video and further sector specific guidance is available on the food.gov.uk website.

More international trading support for local businesses

Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce have secured funding to ensure Central Bedfordshire businesses have the support to continue trading or who are wanting to trade internationally by delivering a comprehensive package of global trade services. Various areas include:
• Adopting a global mindset
• Overcoming barriers to trade
• Exploring new markets
• Showcase and Connect (virtual trade mission & inward investment showcase)

Businesses interested in finding out more can book, contact the Global Trade Service team on 01582 522448 or email the team.

Green Business Support launch event

We're supporting Green Business Network to launch some new and exciting services at the launch event:
Date: 6 October
Time: 14.00 - 16.00
Venue: Forest of Marston Vale

During this session, you will:
• Find out how your company can benefit from our offerings
• Give the Council your feedback on issues that stop you being green
• Learn what grants are available to help

Book your place or for further information email, call 07792 480986.

Need to increase productivity in your business?

The new Productivity Programme, delivered by the University of Bedfordshire and Central Bedfordshire Council will support local businesses that want to increase productivity and solidify a route to long-term growth.

Benefits of this programme include:
• Upskilling current staff
• Ability to bring in new products, processes & bring ideas to life
• Explained and signposted: routes to new funding & inward investment
• Business growth & waste decline

For more information, visit Central Bedfordshire Productivity Programme or email the team.

Website: www.becentralbedfordshire.co.uk

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @BeCentralBeds