Hyndburn Council announces free events to support businesses

Hyndburn Council has announced a new programme of free events designed to give local businesses practical advice, expert insight and opportunities to make valuable connections.

Taking place across September, October and November, the events will focus on three important areas for businesses: technology and innovation, commercial planning, and funding. All three are completely free to attend, making the programme accessible to businesses of all sizes across Hyndburn.

The programme begins with Tech Lancashire: Powering Lancashire’s Business Future at Accrington Stanley’s Wham Stadium on Wednesday 30 September, from 10am to 12.30pm.

Bringing together business leaders, innovators and technology professionals from across Lancashire, the half-day event will explore how collaboration, technology and innovation can create new opportunities for businesses.

An inspiring keynote speaker and interactive panel discussion will look at how organisations can embrace innovation, adopt new technologies, develop talent and build the partnerships needed to thrive in a rapidly changing business environment.

The guest panel will feature Dan Knowles, founder of Northern Reach; Richard Singleton, Founder of WhY-Us? Marketing; Cath Rogan, founder of Smart Garment People and Loombreakers; Joe Murray, founder of Small Business Software; and Lee Fogg, director of 3D 360.

Businesses will also have the opportunity to meet representatives from organisations including IN4.0, Growth Agency, Made Smarter and AMRC.

Pastries, tea and coffee will be available on arrival, with time for networking and a buffet lunch also included.

Free places for Tech Lancashire can be booked through Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tech-lancashire-tickets-1999197987999

The second event, Lunchtime Live: Commercial Planning Workshop, will take place online via Microsoft Teams on Tuesday 20 October, from noon to 1pm.

This practical session is designed to help businesses better understand the commercial planning process and avoid potentially costly mistakes.

The workshop will cover when planning permission may be required, changes of use, permitted development rights, application requirements, costs, timescales and common challenges, as well as the support available from Hyndburn Borough Council.

Businesses will also hear directly from Nadya Parveen, director of Next Step Adult Day Care Centre, who will share her own experience of navigating the planning process and offer a real-life business perspective.

The online workshop is free to attend, with registration available at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1998542911648

The programme concludes with Funding Unlocked at Accrington Stanley’s Wham Stadium on Wednesday 4th November, from 10am to 12.30pm.

Funding Unlocked will bring funders, business support organisations and local experts together to help businesses better understand the funding landscape and the different types of finance and support available.

The event will explore grants, loans, investment and wider business support, including what makes a strong funding application, common reasons why businesses are unsuccessful and how to decide when the time is right to approach a funder.

Through practical discussion, real examples and opportunities to ask questions, the session will help businesses feel more confident about their funding options and how best to prepare.

Whether a business is just starting out, looking to grow, investing in new equipment or planning its next stage, the event will provide useful information to help owners make informed decisions.

Free places for Funding Unlocked can be booked at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1998544060083

Cllr Munsif Dad, leader of Hyndburn Council, said: “Our local businesses are incredibly important to Hyndburn, providing jobs, opportunities and investment in our communities, and we want to make sure they have access to the right support to succeed.

“These are three great events covering areas that can make a real difference to businesses, from embracing technology and understanding the planning system to finding the right funding and support.

“Importantly, every event is completely free, making them accessible to businesses of all sizes. I would encourage local business owners to take advantage of the expertise on offer, make new connections and secure their free place before it’s too late.”

All three events are free to attend, but places are limited and advance registration is required.