King's Lynn Library to support local entrepreneurs on Start-Up Day 2019

King's Lynn Library to support local entrepreneurs on Start-Up Day 2019

Four of Norfolk's libraries will join libraries across the UK in hosting a unique day-long programme dedicated to supporting start-ups and small business owners.

The events will celebrate Start-Up Day on 11 October, with a full day at Norwich’s Millennium Library, and half days at King’s Lynn, Thetford and Great Yarmouth libraries.

Cllr Margaret Dewsbury, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We hope these events will encourage and support potential entrepreneurs in taking their first steps towards turning their brilliant idea into a successful enterprise. Our business libraries are there to help, and much of it is free, so why not head along – even if it’s just to network over a coffee in the morning.”

The day will include live screenings from successful entrepreneurs, as well as talks from industry experts including Santander and Hethel Innovation.

Visit www.bipcnorfolk.eventbrite.com to see the full programme of events.

New figures recently released by the British Library reveal that Norfolk’s Business & IP Centres have helped create 209 new businesses since 2016. They also reached people who are under-represented in business, with 67% of users being women, 16% from a black, Asian or ethnic minority background, and 31% aged 16-35.

Roly Keating, Chief Executive of the British Library, said: “As we work towards our vision of expanding the Business & IP Centre network to 20 Centres by 2023, it is invigorating to see so many libraries taking part in this year’s Start-Up Day for the first time ever.

“This nationwide event is not only a celebration of what entrepreneurs can achieve when the barriers to information, expertise and a like-minded community are broken down, but a call to action to anyone who is working tirelessly from their home office or kitchen table to get a business off the ground. We look forward to welcoming those new visitors from around the country today and to supporting them in getting their idea to market.”

Success story – David Fung

David Fung sought advice and support in the early stages of starting his own business as a magician, and the library worked its magic, helping him with basic business knowledge and business planning, and his questions about the accounting process were answered by the BIPC in partnership with local accounting firm Larking Gowen.

David said: “During the early stages of considering starting a business, basic business knowledge and information were provided as well as motivation! I gained a sense of comfort from having this advice, as well as reassurance and support, and I was given advice of where and when further business support was available to me.”

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