by Graham Tutthillgtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

Business people who already operate in Dover are encouraging budding entrepreneurs to come and join them – and two of the most successful will receive £2,000 to get them off the ground.

The Make It Happen initiative is being launched by the Dover Town Team, which was originally set up to bid for money in the Portas Pilot project. Although the bid was unsuccessful, the town team members decided to continue to work together to make a difference to Dover.

Now they are looking for people who are thinking about self-employment or starting a business in the Dover area.

“Using a team of experts over 12 weeks we will guide applicants through business planning, banking, accountancy, sales, marketing, networking and more,” said town team spokesman David Little.

“Perhaps more importantly, at the end of the 12 weeks, the two most outstanding candidates will receive a bursary of £2,000 to help get their business venture started. This can be used towards rent, stock, equipment or whatever they choose. Our aim is to kickstart new businesses and continue with the regeneration of Dover.

“In identifying, developing and encouraging new business start-ups, the Town Team is determined to create opportunities for local people. Several members of the Town Team have started and built successful businesses in Dover and now, with the help of other business people in the area we want to assist others in doing the same.”

The Town Team say they decided to launch the scheme because high unemployment and limited job opportunities have meant that more and more people, from all ages and backgrounds, are looking towards self employment as a way to generate an income for themselves.

But how and where they start, how much money is needed, the search for premises and dealings with HM Revenue and Customs are all questions which they have to face, together with the need for a business plan, help from a bank and how to advertise.

“We have put together a programme in which a select number of local would-be entrepreneurs will be guided through the pitfalls and advantages,” said Mr Little.

“At the end of the 12-week programme the two candidates thought most likely to succeed will win £2,000 each, with no stipulations other than they must live and be based in the town area.”

For more information email team@dovertown.co.uk or call 07754 145551.

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