Entrepreneurs have chance to make business ideas a reality
BUDDING entrepreneurs are invited to take part in this year’s For Entrepreneurs Only (FEO) Bootcamp.
The Bootcamp is designed to be a fast-track programme for entrepreneurs who want to start or are in the early stages of a business.
Melinda O’Reilly, manager for FEO, a group of Hull and East Yorkshire business men and women committed to creating wealth and jobs in the local community, said: “We are thrilled with the success of our previous Bootcamp sessions and can’t wait to get things started once again. This Bootcamp is already in high demand and it’s fantastic to see the local business community spreading the word about the opportunities we are offering.”
With a joint turnover of £1.5bn and employing over 8,000 local people, the FEO members aim to help rebuild the local economy by creating more private sector jobs for the future.
The Bootcamp sessions will involve FEO members discussing their real-life experiences, networking opportunities, hint and tips from members, interactive activities and support from an FEO mentor.
Neil Worner, who set up Hull’s first pedal-powered cycle taxi business (Hull Rickshaws), has previously attended the programme.
“Starting any new business is a very daunting experience, especially one as novel as a rickshaw business. Through the Bootcamp, I met other budding entrepreneurs trying to start out on the business ladder. FEO gives you help and advice, plus the confidence and backing needed in the early stages of setting up a business,” he said.
FEO is holding a Bootcamp launch event next month, ahead of the full Bootcamp programme.
The organisation has also launched its second Step Change for Growth programme, designed for business owners who are keen to take their company to the next level.
The programme is currently being delivered to 18 different business people, and is aimed at creating further business growth and job creation. .
FEO chief executive, Jan Brumby, said: “This programme is what FEO is all about. We know that entrepreneurs learn more from each other than they do from text books and conferences, so we have tailored this Step Change series to fit their needs and ensure participants will be fully equipped and enthusiastic about what they can achieve with regards to business growth and job creation.”
Step Change For Growth facilitator, David Hall, said on the last programme, delegates developed a strategy to grow, boost margins and build a solid platform for their future.
“They worked hard and earned the benefits they now enjoy. We were delighted with the passion and commitment they showed in dealing with the issues growth businesses typically face, so if they can do it so can you,” he said.
FEO was set up in 2010 and became a Community Interest Company in 2012. It offers free support and guidance to entrepreneurs in the Hull and East Riding area via one-to-one mentoring, business clinics and the FEO Bootcamp. Its partners include KC, Lloyds Bank, Rollits and Smailes Goldie.
