| This new programme aims to help community businesses to start trading and increase awareness of the way in which the sector can address social and economic challenges within Suffolk. MENTA, the not for profit organisation, long established within the Suffolk and Norfolk business community, are the lead organisation in this partnership. Working closely with Community Action Suffolk (CAS), this project has been commissioned by Power to Change and Suffolk County Council to develop a plan to support and strengthen the growth of new and existing community businesses in Suffolk. The plan is to provide a range of specialist support from our region to offer community- based business start-ups the opportunity to gain the confidence, information and knowledge required to start their new business within the local community. MENTA has already hosted a successful series of social media/marketing workshops throughout Suffolk, and now, Community Action Suffolk (CAS) are offering some exciting free business workshops in April and May. The dates and venues are as follows: 21st April 2020 Westleton Village Hall The Street, Westleton, IP17 3AD 10:30am-12:30pm 28th April 28, 2020 The Mix, Stowmarket IP14 1BB 10:30am-12-30pm 5th May 2020 Moreton Hall Community Centre Bury St Edmunds, IP32 7EW 10:30am-12:30pm These free workshops will help you to understand what is needed to begin your planning process, and get your community business started in the right way. Recognise your organisations value, its purpose and be able to plan for a strong future. The workshops will look at the different structures available to Community Businesses and the benefits and disadvantages involved with each. Roles within the structure will be discussed, as well as additional advice and support to help you move the group forwards. These workshops are designed to help whether you are a new or existing community business and will guide you to templates, support and all of the relevant information you may require. To book your free place please visit: https://www.menta.org.uk/community-business |