First published in the Worcester News on 8 April 2016
I look forward to seeing many businesses at next week’s Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership’s Business Plan Workshop as we continue to work with all partner organisations to achieve our long-term goals to benefit the economy. I am particularly looking forward to hearing the ideas from businesses on what is required for a strong pipeline of projects for the coming years to ensure the long-term prosperity of the County.
Businesses too will be planning ahead and if you are planning to expand, I am pleased to say that the next round of the Worcestershire Growth Fund opens today for businesses looking to grow and create additional jobs. Details can be found at www.business-central.co.uk/worcestershiregrowthfund and Expressions of Interest need to be submitted by 13 May 2016.
I would also encourage you to get involved in the 2016 Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards that we host with Worcestershire County Council as nominations are now open until 30 June 2016. I’d like to thank our sponsors who make this event possible with Worcester Bosch Group and Yamazaki Mazak sponsoring the two main awards again this year – the Worcestershire Apprentice of the Year and Worcestershire Apprenticeship Employer of the Year. The other awards are being sponsored by E-Response, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Sanctuary Group and Worcestershire Training Providers Association and thank you to you all.
The awards are a fantastic was to celebrate the excellent work that is taking place across the County and so I would encourage you to visit www.worcsapprenticeships.org.uk and place your nominations as well as secure your table at the awards evening. Details of the limited remaining sponsorship opportunities are also available. If you don’t already provide apprenticeship opportunities, I would encourage you to visit the website to find out more about the wealth of support available and how apprentices could benefit your business.