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Welcome to the latest edition of the SVBS newsletter.
This week, we're focusing on our Visitor Economy Connect forum for hospitality organisations in South and Vale. Full details can be found below.
We're also highlighting new safety and security declaration requirements, simpler recycling legislation for businesses, the new One IPO Search tool, free energy assessments for SMEs in Cherwell, the return of the Rising Stars competition and The Open University's National Apprenticeship Week employer webinar.
Plus, follow us on Facebook and X to be kept up-to-date in between our weekly newsletters.There are lots more opportunities, events and resources to get stuck into this week, but as always, if you'd like to suggest content for the SVBS newsletter, please get in touch with us.
- South and Vale's Economic Development team
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Join us at our Visitor Economy Connect forum.
Whether you run a B&B, a café or a bustling restaurant, or specialise in events, we want you to join us at our South and Vale Visitor Economy Connect forum.
Backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and supported by Tourism South East, South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have undertaken research to explore the current status, challenges and opportunities of our local visitor economy.
Who is this for?
We invite businesses and stakeholders from the hospitality sector to join us for a presentation where we will pick out the key headlines from our research, including tips to improve the visibility of your organisation to residents and visitors.
Please note that spaces are limited.
Why should I attend?
Attendees will be the first to hear about our current and future projects with Tourism South East. We'll be discussing our marketing activity and outlining opportunities for businesses to work with us and get involved in our promotional campaigns. Plus, we'll have a discussion with attendees about their opinions on the future for the sector in our local area.
This session is your opportunity to engage with like-minded entrepreneurs, share insights, and learn from experts about the latest trends and strategies shaping the future of the visitor economy.
Whether you're looking to grow your business, improve operational efficiency or stay ahead of the curve, this event is the place to be. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to build your network and gain practical insights for your hospitality business!
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Preparing for the new safety and security declaration requirementsFrom 31 January 2025, EU imports into Great Britain must be covered by a safety and security declaration.Safety and security declarations will bring important additional information to support the fight against illicit goods, such as drugs and weapons, entering the UK, and help to ensure that interventions at the border are based on risk.
The Government has published the following guidance:
- preparing for the changes
- what you need to do according to your mode of transport: air, sea, roll-on roll-off, rail and Eurotunnel
- a video that explains what you need to do
- information for intermediaries and customs agents
- information for hauliers and carriers of accompanied goods
- information for importers.
Visit the Government's website for further details.
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Simpler Recycling for businesses New Government legislation will soon come into force that will require all businesses, health and social care establishments and academic institutions to separate a number of recyclables from their general waste.
These include glass bottles and jars, metal food and drinks cans, plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays, paper and cardboard, and food waste.The new guidelines apply to all businesses, healthcare establishments and academic institutions, but small businesses with fewer than 10 full-time employees are temporarily exempt until 31 March 2027.
Get advice on what you need to do to prepare at:
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Intellectual Property Office (IPO) launches new One IPO Search toolA new online search tool for UK patents makes it easier for businesses and innovators to search and access patent information, supporting UK growth and innovation.
One IPO Search enables users to:
- check if a similar patent to your invention already exists in the UK
- view who owns UK patents
- find somebody else’s patent to use.
You can also check for changes to patents, including new applications or changes to applications using patents journal.
Find out more via the Government's website.
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Free energy assessments for SMEs in CherwellOur counterparts at Cherwell District Council have asked us to highlight the opportunity for free energy audits for those based in the district. If your business has premises, suppliers or contacts in the area, then you may be interested in a fully funded Energy Solutions Oxfordshire energy assessment, worth a minimum of £1,500.Successful organisations will discover how they could lower energy bills, cut carbon emissions and make buildings more comfortable for users. Please note that there are a limited number of assessments available. The deadline for registrations is 14 March 2025.If you have a premises in the Cherwell district, or know of a business who may benefit from a free energy assessment, visit the Low Carbon Hub website.
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Rising Stars competition returns
The UK’s largest prize pitch competition for B2B startups is back, with £3 million worth of investment up for grabs.
This exciting competition offers early-stage tech startups an invaluable platform to pitch their innovations at the regional and national levels, boosting visibility and attracting customers, partners and investors.
The prize includes two tracks for startups across various stages:
- Emerging Stars
Pre-seed or seed-stage startups competing for the opportunity to win the Haatch Regional Prize of £335,000 in investment and the chance to showcase their businesses at London Tech Week.
- OnetoWin Rising Stars
Pre-Series A to Series A startups competing to qualify for a place in the Grand Final at London Tech Week with the opportunity to win £1,000,000 in investment.
The competition closes for entries at 11.59pm on 2 March. Apply via the Tech Nation website.
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National Apprenticeship Week employer webinar: What lies behind the success stories?Apprenticeships develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours that allow employees to succeed and thrive in the workplace, but how they are utilised varies from employer to employer. Join The Open University for a webinar on the strengths of the apprenticeship model, advice on identifying talent, onboarding apprentices and retaining them through to completion. Wednesday 12 February | 11am - 12pmAttendees will hear from best practice organisations who have made a success of their apprenticeship provision. Register for the webinar via The Open University's website.
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Boost your business success – stay connected with us!
Are you ready to take your business to the next level? We’re here to provide the tools, insights and resources you need to succeed.
Follow our social media channels for:
- The latest business news
- Important events
- Practical advice and guidance
- Opportunities for businesses.
Follow us on our new Facebook page and X account to keep up to date.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, knowledge or just a little extra motivation, we’ve got you covered. We’re here to help your business thrive - one post at a time!
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