You are receiving this email as you have subscribed to receive all updates from South and Vale Business Support via our website, or when registering for one of our events. If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please unsubscribe below.
|
|
|
Welcome to the latest edition of the SVBS newsletter.
This week, we're focusing on the Energy Solutions Oxfordshire Green Fund, where organisations in South and Vale could get up to £10,000 match funded for energy efficiency measures or projects. Full details can be found below.
We're also highlighting Small Business Britain's 'Bot Up Your Business' AI marketing programme, new online tools from HMRC, green business certifications for small businesses, Enterprise Oxfordshire's Oxfordshire Networking Groups page, The Plough at Hanney's award for Country Pub of the Year, the Beautiful South Tourism Awards, a breathtaking moon sculpture at Harwell Campus, Horizon Europe funding, and Oxfordshire County Council's sustainability workshop for micro and small businesses.
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
|
|
|
Get match funding with the Energy Solutions Oxfordshire Green Fund
SMEs in Oxfordshire could get up to £10,000 match funded for energy efficiency measures or renewable energy projects via Energy Solutions Oxfordshire's Green Fund.
Carrying out energy efficiency recommendations or adding a renenewable energy source to your premises isn’t just good for the environment. With the help of match funding, you can cut your organisational costs and save in the future.
Some of the benefits of making energy efficiency improvements include:
- Sizeable cost savings
- Better working environments for your staff and clients
- Your organisation is seen as a sustainability leader in the community
- Reduced CO₂ emissions and better local air quality
- More stable energy costs
- The potential for additional revenue streams
- Improved staff retention and recruitment.
Please note: to apply for the Green Fund, you’ll need to have had an energy efficiency report from Energy Solutions Oxfordshire.Register your interest via the Energy Solutions Oxfordshire website.
|
|
|
|
‘Bot Up Your Business’ - the AI for Marketing programmeSmall Business Britain is thrilled to deliver the free 'Bot Up Your Business' programme, supported by BT Group, to help small business owners learn how AI can be their marketing ally. Through practical training designed to tackle real-world business challenges, you’ll learn how AI can improve content creation, strengthen copywriting and enhance social media campaigns. Course dates
- Module 1 – 6 May (10am - 11am)
- Module 2 – 13 May (10am - 11am)
- Module 3 – 20 May (10am - 11am)
- Module 4 – 27 May (10am - 11am)
The programme is delivered entirely online, allowing access from anywhere in the UK. Register for your free place via the Small Business Britain website.
|
|
|
|
HMRC launches online tools to help small businessesHMRC has introduced interactive online tools to support sole traders and those thinking about self-employment. The Set up as a sole trader: step-by-step guide provides helpful information on whether you need to register as a sole trader and how to go about it. In addition, the VAT Registration Estimator helps businesses understand how registering for VAT could impact their turnover and profits. Try out the new tools via the HMRC website by clicking on the links above.
|
|
|
|
Green business certifications for small businessesFor small businesses, gaining a green business certification is a way to demonstrate commitment to sustainability, stand out in a competitive market and improve operational efficiency. There are several recognised certifications in the UK that small businesses can achieve to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. The right choice depends on your industry, goals and the level of environmental action your business is already taking. Here are some of the most relevant options in the UK:
- ISO 14001 – Environmental management certification
- B Corp Certification – Social and Environmental Impact
- Carbon Trust Route to Net Zero Standard – Reducing Carbon Footprint
- Fairtrade – Ethical Sourcing and Supply Chains
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) – Sustainable Use of Forest Products
Full details can be found via the FSB website.
|
|
|
|
Connect and grow with Oxfordshire networking groupsIn today's fast-paced business world, networking is more important than ever. Whether you're looking to find new business opportunities or share experiences with like-minded individuals, the Enterprise Oxfordshire Networking Groups page provides an opportunity for local businesses to connect, collaborate and grow. Joining a networking group can open doors to opportunities, helping you expand your professional horizons and grow your business. Don't miss out on the chance to connect with peers who can support you on your business journey. Find the right group for you via the Enterprise Oxfordshire Networking Groups page.
|
|
|
Above: Image credit: The Plough at Hanney
Oxfordshire pub wins esteemed award for third year running
Members of White Horse CAMRA have voted The Plough in West Hanney their Country Pub of the Year. This is the third year running that The Plough has won the award, and the first time ever that a pub has won the award for three consecutive years.
White Horse CAMRA chairman, Simon Moore, said:
'The Plough has deservedly won the award for a third time. They serve four regularly changing real ales and they’re always in tip-top condition. The pub serves great food and has a lovely atmosphere.'
Visit Southern OxfordshireFor details of pubs to relax in, places to visit and things to do in Southern Oxfordshire, visit our website.
|
|
|
|
Apply for The Beautiful South Tourism AwardsThe Beautiful South Tourism Awards are open for entries, and we're encouraging hospitality businesses across South and Vale to apply. Categories include:
- Unsung Hero Award
- Business Events Venue of the Year
- Tourism Event/Festival of the Year
- Visitor Information Service of the Year
- Wedding Venue of the Year
- Accommodation
- Experiences and attractions
- Food and drink.
|
|
|
|
The Moon Lands at Harwell A six-metre-wide replica of the Moon will soon go on show to members of the public at Harwell Campus, as part of The Light Project – a two-year programme of public engagement events to celebrate 80 years of cutting-edge research and technological breakthroughs at Harwell. Museum of the Moon, created by UK artist Luke Jerram, has captivated over 20 million people across 41 countries. This inspiring installation will take centre stage at Harwell from 21 May to 6 June. During the exhibition, children can also take part in craft activities, try on space suits and explore Spacescapes – a series of stunning postcards of the solar system. Read this story via the Harwell Campus website.
Left: Image credit: Luke Jerram, Cork Midsummer Festival UK, 2017.
|
|
|
|
Apply for Horizon Europe fundingThe Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is encouraging small UK businesses, particularly those involved in research and development, to apply for funding through the Horizon Europe programme. Horizon Europe is a major research and innovation initiative with a budget of more than £82 billion, running until 2027. The funding is available for:
- Excellent research in any field
- Researcher mobility
- Research infrastructure
- Global challenges and industrial competitiveness including health, culture, creativity and more
- Innovation
- The development of the European research and innovation systems.
Find full details via the UK Research and Innovation website.
|
|
|
|
Introduction to Sustainability for Micro & Small BusinessesLearn how to make your micro or small business more sustainable at the Oxfordshire County Council Introduction to Sustainability workshop, ideal for those who are at the start of their sustainability journey. Wednesday 30 April | 5.30pm - 8pmBIPC, Oxford Westgate LibraryA commitment to sustainable practices can give a competitive edge to small businesses in a competitive landscape. Increasingly, those hoping to work with public sector organisations will need to demonstrate a commitment to environmental and social outcomes beyond the bottom line. Topics covered will include climate change mitigation and adaptation, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, circular economy and social value. Participants will leave knowing how to calculate their business’ carbon footprint and will have a basic carbon reduction plan. These will help ensure that you and your business are well-equipped to decrease emissions in line with (or ahead of) the UK Government’s Net Zero target. Register for your free place via Eventbrite.
|
|
|
|
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!
|
|
|
|
|
