Business
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Eyes wide open when training and recruiting for AI
Stock image by Igor Omilaev from Unsplash
AI is the new kid on the block, and SMEs and entrepreneurs are quickly waking up to its potential. However, before taking the plunge and investing in AI – or the associated human skillsets – it’s important not to view AI as a magic bullet for your business.
Many AI applications, particularly in areas such as marketing and HR, still require human oversight, judgement and context. To use AI effectively, employers need a clear understanding of how it supports their wider business strategy and delivers real value.
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Coffee and Collaboration: Unlock the power of inclusive recruitment
We know Somerset is full of talented people who are ready to step into work – with the right support. That’s why we’re bringing local employers together for Coffee and Collaboration: Unlock the Power of Inclusive Recruitment, a free, in‑person coffee morning designed to help businesses strengthen their workforce and tap into the county’s diverse talent pool.
Taking place on Tuesday 24 February 2026, from 9am to 12pm at Taunton Rugby Football Club, this relaxed and interactive event will connect employers from across Somerset and explore how inclusive recruitment can support productivity, improve retention and enhance workplace culture.
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UK Young Entrepreneur Awards
Sir Stelios Haji‑Ioannou, through the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, has launched the 2026 UK Young Entrepreneur Awards, offering a total of £300,000 in cash grants to support the growth of ambitious young businesses across the UK. The awards are open to entrepreneurs aged 34 or under who own and lead start‑ups registered in the last 5 years and generating at least £500,000 in annual revenue.
Designed to help founders scale up, create jobs and gain national recognition, the scheme will make 3 awards of £150,000, £100,000 and £50,000, all to be reinvested directly into the winning businesses. Applications are open until 23 February 2026, targeting high‑performing young companies ready for their next stage of growth.
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Shaping the future of Somerset’s Agri-Food industry
As part of our Economic Prosperity Strategy for Somerset, Business Information Point (BIP) has been commissioned to research the challenges and opportunities facing the county’s agri‑food sector. Everyone working in or supporting agri‑food – from producers and processors to policymakers and charities – is encouraged to help shape future support and investment for Somerset’s agri‑food industry by sharing their views via an Economic, Technological, Social and Environmental Factors survey.
The survey is open until 20 February 2026. All responses are anonymous, and personal data will only be shared with us and BIP, with your consent. For more information, contact claire.h@businessinfopoint.co.uk.
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Urgent call for Ukraine – energy sector support
Following the recent call from Minister for Trade Chris Bryant MP, we’re helping to coordinate humanitarian offers from Somerset businesses of equipment and technical solutions to help stabilise Ukraine’s essential heat, water, and electricity services, during what is expected to be a hard winter.
Ukraine’s energy sector is in a state of emergency because of Russian attacks, and urgently in need of vital infrastructure equipment.
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Economic development news
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Visit our news archive to stay informed on the latest business and economic developments shaping Somerset.
From growth opportunities and funding updates to insights on local initiatives, you’ll find everything you need to keep your business ahead.
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Upcoming events to highlight in this month’s edition
The Source Roadshow, delivered by Hale Events Ltd, is a 1‑day business exhibition connecting Somerset companies with producers, suppliers and service providers across the food, drink, hospitality and business support sectors. It takes place on Wednesday 25 February 2026, from 9:30am to 5:30pm, at the Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet.
We’ll be exhibiting on Stand A28, where our teams will be available to offer information, advice and practical support. Visit us to explore useful resources, get expert guidance and discover how we can support your business.
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Managing IP as a Business Asset is a free Lunch and Learn session taking place on Wednesday 25 February, 12.30 to 2pm, hosted by the Somerset Innovation Hub. The session focuses on how businesses can protect, cultivate and grow the value of their ideas, with practical insights from Ben Travers and Natalie Monaghan of Foot Anstey’s IP practice. It is designed to be useful, accessible and directly relevant to growing businesses.
Following the session, attendees will have the opportunity to book a free, informal drop‑in chat with Foot Anstey’s IP experts to discuss their own circumstances and ask questions in confidence.
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Somerset Innovation Hub: Innovation Workout is a fully funded, 1-day workshop taking place on Friday 27 February, from 10am to 4pm, designed to help participants validate, refine, test and roadmap new ideas. Delivered by SETsquared Exeter, the session is coached and moderated to provide expert external perspective and structured support.
Most ideas fail not because the product is bad, but because the business model hasn’t been properly “stress-tested.” This workshop uses proven industry tools to map strategy, uncover hidden opportunities and challenge assumptions, helping ideas become more robust and investment-ready.
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Also, don’t forget to 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.
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If your business needs support, has news, developments, or a good news story, please email the team at ecdev@somerset.gov.uk.
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