Teignbridge Business Buddies will seek to match new start-up businesses and existing companies with a turnover of under £250,000 with “buddies” to assist them in making the most of business opportunities.
Anne Marie said:
“I am delighted by just how many local business people have offered to assist in this networking scheme as their contribution to creating a Big Society for Small Business here in Teignbridge. More than 20 businesses were represented at our inaugural business and considerable interest has been subsequently shown by many others.
“It is well established that micro and small businesses are the lifeblood of our regional economy. I know from personal experience that the most challenging aspect of starting a business is the early years when turnover is low, bills need to be met and the taking on of an extra pair of hands is not always affordable. It is during these early days that many businesses would really benefit from good quality impartial advice.
“I believe the Teignbridge Business Buddies Network represents the Big Society for Small Business in action. It is local business people with expert knowledge providing assistance to existing and new businesses that request it. I am proud to have launched it and I will now hold regular business surgeries across my constituency where local businesspeople can meet informally to discuss their concerns with me and be put in contact with an appropriate buddy.”