Welcome to the latest edition of the SVBS newsletter.
This week, you'll find details of exclusive support available to Visitor Economy businesses, and links to new webinars for businesses trading with the EU.
In our focus on events, we're highlighting the return to in person networking of SVBS supported group, Abingdon Business Buzz, and following the successful launch of our Networking in... partnership last week, we're sharing the expert talk from the inaugural session, from UK Barclays Entrepreneur of the Year 2019, Mike Lawton. (We're also looking ahead to next months Networking in... session, when we'll be joined by social entrepreneur Richard Kennell of SOFEA).
Later this week, members of the SVBS team are attending "Beyond COP26: How Oxfordshire is powering the zero carbon transition". The event is organised by Oxfordshire Greentech, and will focus on the steps Oxfordshire is taking to deliver a zero-carbon economy. Registration details can be found in our events section - we'll hope to see many of you there!Remember, if you have business, news, an event, or opportunity or you would like us to feature, please get in touch.
- Team SVBS
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'Tackling the climate emergency is a key objective within the Vale of White Horse District Council Corporate Plan 2020-2024, so I was happy to join businesses in attending SVBS's recent "Greening the Web" workshop, run in conjunction with Sustainable Results Lab.When I first heard about this event I was intrigued, as I hadn't realised quite how much our use of the internet, electronic devices, and email can affect our personal carbon footprint - and that of our businesses.
With the help of Ruth from Sustainable Results Lab and the SVBS team, I learnt how to assess the green credentials of an organisation's website and the simple ways this can be improved, at the same time as improving the customer experience of that website.
Importantly for me, I also found out the tips and tricks to reduce my carbon footprint every day by modifying the way I email colleagues and how I use virtual meetings.
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I learnt that it really doesn't take much to reduce your digital carbon footprint, while at the same time, improving your customers' experience - it is a no brainer, I am sold on this, and I will be spreading the word far and wide!
I encourage businesses to join the campaign by accessing the free "Greening the Web" guide available via the SVBS website.
- Councillor Bethia Thomas
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We're currently running a six-week "Greening the Web" campaign to highlight the easy ways your business can reduce your digital carbon footprint.Until 17 December, we're posting a message at midday, each day, on our Twitter and Facebook pages, with a different theme for each week.
Last week we focused on finding out how your website is impacting the planet by using this free carbon calculator, and this week, we're covering green hosting providers.We'd love for you to get involved in the campaign. You can request our free guide via the below link, and share the actions you’re taking on social media by using the hashtag #DigitalCarbonFootprint!
Find out more on our website.
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LaunchUK Nanosat Design Competition - Now open for entries
From next year, small satellites will launch into Space from UK spaceports for the first time – helping to create new jobs and opportunities for future space scientists and engineers
Young people (16+) are encouraged to design a nanosatellite to help inform solutions to climate change. Competition entrants will compete for a share of a £600,000 Challenge Fund, enabling them to develop and build their satellite design with the potential to launch from a UK spaceport from 2023.
Entrants will also have the unique opportunity to receive mentorship from industry experts to help develop their designs as well as gain valuable skills to help progress a potential career in the UK space sector.
Find out more on the Nanosat Design Competition website.
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OxLEP exclusive support for Visitor Economy Businesses
Visitor Economy businesses in Oxfordshire with five or more staff are being offered fully funded support to develop their senior or middle management. The Peer Networks programme is designed to help the individuals and the businesses to grow through collaborative problem solving and preparing for challenges ahead.
220 Oxfordshire businesses have already benefitted from the Peer Networks programme, including a number from the Visitor Economy.
Starting on 2 December, those participating in the programme will get four hours of one-to-one coaching, mentoring or business advice, and will be connected with a range of wider business support opportunities.Find out how you can get involved on OxLEP's website.
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Abingdon Business Buzz is back!
We're pleased to announce that the SVBS-supported Abingdon Business Buzz is moving back to face-to-face meetings! The first event will take place at the Nag's Head on the Thames on Wednesday 17 November.
Date and time:
Every third Wednesday of the month
10:00 - 12:00
Please note that:
- Attendees must register and book via the WebApp. Cash is not currently accepted
- There will be a ‘no hand-shake policy’ in place
Register on the Business Buzz app.
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'Growing Pains' - the opportunities and challenges of growing an organisation from scratch
Join us at Networking in... South & Vale as we welcome Richard Kennell, CEO of Oxfordshire-based enterprise SOFEA.
Wednesday 8 December | 10:30 - 12:00
Richard will be talking about the growing pains associated with running a growing business. SOFEA provides education, employability and wellbeing programmes for vulnerable youngsters. The team tackle food insecurity and the disadvantage it causes, while having a positive impact on the environment by reducing food waste.
The first 40 businesses to register for this event can claim a half-price ticket for just £5, using the code 'SVBS'. Register on the Networking in... website.
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Power of Purpose week - #POP2021
Join key partners and stakeholders across Oxfordshire this week for POP2021, a festival of events and activities celebrating business as a force for good!
Find out more and register for events on the OSEP website.
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