Welcome to the latest edition of the SVBS newsletter.

This week we're focusing on our Winter Support Grants that are open for applications from South and Vale based businesses until midday on Thursday 16 December.

We're also highlighting our next Netwalking in... event, taking place tomorrow from 10:30 - 12:00. We'll be joined by Richard Kennell, CEO of Oxfordshire-based enterprise SOFEA, to talk about the growing pains associated with running a growing business.

There's also a new 'Plan it with Purpose' sustainability discovery tool from Enterprise Nation mentioned below, plus lots of other opportunities and resources to look through.

Remember, if you have business news, an event, or opportunity or you would like us to feature, please get in touch.


- Team SVBS
Businesses based in South and Vale have until midday on Thursday 16 December to apply for our Winter Support Grants.

Successful applicants of the Start-up Grant and the Sector Hardship Grant will be awarded up to £15,000. The final amount awarded will be dependent on remaining ARG funds and the number of successful applicants for the schemes.

Before beginning an application, or contacting the SVBS team for assistance, we encourage applicants to review the scheme FAQs.

If you have any language barriers or learning difficulties that mean you will need some support with completing the application form, please let us know so that we can assist you as soon as possible.
Join us tomorrow for one of the friendliest online networking events around.

Our second Networking in... South & Vale event features a guest talk from Richard Kennell, CEO of Oxfordshire-based enterprise SOFEA, alongside fun, friendly, faced paced networking that will leave you motivated and full of energy for the day ahead.


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.

To attend, register for the event before 9pm today. The first 40 businesses to register for this event can claim a half-price ticket for just £5, using the code 'SVBS'.
'Plan it with Purpose' - check out Enterprise Nation's sustainability discovery tool

Enterprise Nation has partnered with Aviva and Smart Energy GB to help 10,000 businesses implement sustainable best practices that deliver a positive impact on the planet, society, and the economy.

The programme is free to join and has been designed to support small and medium businesses and business owners by increasing their understanding of environmental and social issues in the UK, showcasing relatable role models, building sustainable ventures, plus encouraging change through tailored resources, action plans and recommendations.

Businesses will need to create an account and answer a few simple questions to receive relevant recommendations, from tips and tutorials to advisers and their services.

Find out more on the Enterprise Nation website.

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