BUSINESS and Education Support agencies across Shepway have teamed up with Channel Chamber of Commerce to provide a series of events for prospective entrepreneurs as part of National Enterprise Week.

This initiative, which begins on November 15, supports a nationwide campaign launched by Chancellor Gordon Brown to inspire people to believe in their own entrepreneurial potential.

Peter Hobbs, chief executive of Channel Chamber of Commerce and organiser of Shepway Enterprise Week, said: “Despite the fact that more than 3,000 new businesses are starting up each week in the UK, very few appear to be doing so here in Shepway.

“We must do a great deal more to change this situation if we are to create a prosperous, thriving local economy.”

During the week two morning sessions are being held at the Business Centre for anyone thinking of starting their own business. They are both free of charge and aim to give participants confidence to take the first important steps into self-employment.

Sixth form students at Brockhill Park School in Hythe are being offered a similar workshop during the week and a networking breakfast and lunchtime event will take place to bring together head teachers and business leaders.

Mr Hobbs said these events, sponsored by South Kent Education Business Partnership and Business Link Kent, aim to foster an enterprise culture within the education system and encourage more of the local school leavers to remain in the area.

Peter Hobbs urges other local organisations in Shepway to join this local initiative and actively encourage anyone thinking of starting their own business to take part.

He added: “Local banks, accountants, solicitors and insurance companies all provide services in this market and I ask them and their clients to get involved and play their part in making the Shepway Enterprise Week a success.”

To support this initiative or for further information please call Pam Robinson on 01303 270022 or email pam.robinson@shepwaybc.co.uk