Issue - meetings

Donald Melville had submitted his apologies but a short report had been submitted updating the group.

Decision:

The group noted the report.

Donald Melville reported on a new business portal  from SSE:

http://www.sseopen4business/

This was a portal providing tendering opportunities for local businesses.

Donald advised on a new Business Growth Grant which is part ERDF funded. It will provide support for local businesses wishing to grow. The funding

would equate to 50% of eligible costs up to a maximum of £3,000. The criteria for the funding are:

Existing businesses that are actively trading with a turnover above £70,000 and be projecting an increase in turnover within the next 3 years linked to a specific growth initiative.

New-start businesses can apply where they have been trading for at least 3 months and are able to demonstrate clear potential to achieve an annual turnover of £70,000 with their first 18 months of trading, with further grow beyond.

He reported that a colleague had undertaken training on 'World Host' and would provide in-house training to other Business Gateway staff.  If there was sufficient interest from local businesses, then this training would be provided in the local area.

Discussion continued in regards the provision of a  breakdown of figures by geographical area and details of the SSE portal.

Decision

The group agreed:

That Donald Melville would provide a geographical breakdown of figures and would also  forward on the Business Gateway electronic magazine to local Members.

A report was tabled at the meeting and Barbara Halliday introduced Donald Melville, new Business Advisor to the group.  Barbara would continue with existing clients and Donald would be tasked with assisting new clients.

Discussion continued in regards the need for Business Gateway to become more prolific in the area and make themselves known to the local community.

The Chair thanked both Barbara and Donald for their attendance.

Barbara Halliday tabled a report for the group.

The Chair enquired if any enquiries had been made by members of the farming community.  Barbara Halliday replied that she had not received any enquiries and it was agreed that she would make contact with Chris Haran (NFU) to help promote Business Gateway.  In addition, it was agreed Barbara she would make contact with Matthew Willis to arrange a visit to the MACC site.

The Chair advised that Mary Dott’s post would come to an end shortly. He expressed thanks on behalf of the KIWG to Mary and highlighted the excellent work she had undertaken and progress she had achieved in her time as Town Centre Manager. 

Barbara Halliday distributed a handout updating the group on the Supplier Development Programme (SDP)

James Lafferty spoke to the tabled Business Gateway report. Report attached

Barbara Halliday reported that the Business Gateway workshops had been well attended thanks to promotion by Mary Dott and James Lafferty.  She also reported on a forthcoming Business Start-up workshop.