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Somerset Council Business News 17 January 2025

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17 January 2025

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Upcoming interactive sessions to help shape Somerset’s economic vision

Interior roof windows of a corporate building.

Further to our 2024/25 Business Survey launched in partnership with the Somerset Economic Growth Board last year, we’re holding two interactive sessions to explore local evidence and emerging themes that will inform the development of a new Economic Strategy for Somerset.

If you run a business or organisation, or are simply interested in helping to shape Somerset’s economic vision and priorities, we invite you to join us on:

Business support

Have your say on how DSFRS should respond to automatic fire alarms

DSFRS-branded graphic featuring the rear end of a fire engine, captioned: 'Right response. Tell us how we should respond to automatic fire alarms?'

Having responded to 16 false alarms per day on average last year, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) has started a consultation with options to change how it responds to automatic fire alarms.

To address this inefficiency, the consultation focuses solely on automatic alerts – attendance in response to genuine emergencies involving reported fires, single domestic properties and high-risk buildings will always be maintained.

Find out more

Transform your business by claiming 1 of 15 free mentee slots

A Somerset Council Business Mentor with her laptop mentoring a business mentee in an office.

As a part of our free business mentoring program, we’re offering up to 15 Somerset businesses with 2 or more employees the opportunity to gain access to personalised 1:1 guidance, working with a successful Somerset entrepreneur.

Whether you’re looking to scale your operations, refine your marketing strategy, get better sales online or innovate your offerings, our experienced mentors are here to support you every step of the way.

Find out more

Accelerate your tech venture with Growth Forge 2025

A Tech South West representative with branded roller banner in the background giving advice to a business women by Gareth Williams Photography.

Tech South West’s high-impact growth accelerator ‘Growth Forge’ is tailored for ambitious tech founders in the South West of England.

The programme includes a comprehensive business profile using the PragmaPulse® Diagnostic, hands-on mentoring, targeted workshops and expert consultations. With a blend of face-to-face Growth Days, online Peer Groups, and ongoing support, Growth Forge equips you with the knowledge and resources to build a robust, investable business.

Find out more

Introducing generative AI for everyday business tasks

HotSW Growth Hub advert feat. Scott Quilter (Techosaurus) & Growth Hub Digi Biz Adviser Peter Doyle, captioned: 'Generative AI. FREE workshop.'

Join the Growth Hub’s free AI workshop for SMEs, Micros, and Sole Traders at The Canalside Conference Centre in Bridgwater from 9.30am to 1pm on 27 February to learn how AI can support HR, Sales, Marketing, and Finance, streamline tasks, enhance productivity and give your business a competitive edge.

You’ll discover practical strategies for integrating AI into daily operations, creating engaging social media posts, re-engaging clients and building robust pricing strategies, along with light refreshments and networking opportunities.

Find out more

Turn your business project into reality with Enterprising Women

Picture of previous Enterprising Women’s cohort.

Women looking to develop the skills and confidence to turn their business ideas into reality are invited to join Enterprising Women – a free Somerset Council-funded course for residents on low incomes, or £880 for all other women in Somerset who don’t match the qualifying criteria.

Based at Edventure Frome on Fridays from 7 February to 27 June, the course is designed to fit around the school day with an emphasis on learning by doing. Participants will be equipped with the tools, skills, and knowledge from personal resilience to business planning, fundraising and marketing.

Find out more

Business events

Dates for your diary calendar icon

Check the following websites for a series of insightful upcoming business events, ranging from online networking to in-depth workshops and in-person training sessions.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain new skills, or explore new opportunities, there’s something for all business types.

Contact us

Consultation loudspeaker icon

If you have an Economic Development enquiry, get in touch with us at ecdev@somerset.gov.uk.

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