Superfast Essex is launching a series of free expert-led Digital Business Workshops and an online toolkit to help small businesses improve their digital know-how.
The workshops will cover a range of topics including increasing online sales, attracting new customers, social media, blogging and the importance of Cloud-based systems. They are being hosted in partnership with the Eastern Enterprise Hub.
The digital toolkit includes a Digital Health Check, to identify any areas where businesses can improve their digital expertise, and ‘Fast Tips’ download which provides information and advice around a range of digital developments, such as Cloud-based Services, Search Engine Optimisation and Social Media Marketing.
The Superfast Essex broadband programme, co-ordinated by Essex County Council, is aiming to encourage businesses to make the most of superfast connectivity when it arrives. Delivering practical digital skills workshops and the digital toolkit are another step towards this goal.
Superfast broadband is set to transform the way businesses operate from enabling businesses to go global to reducing costs and increasing efficiency with Cloud-based services.
Essex County Councillor Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Waste and Recycling, said: “There are many commercial advantages to having high speed broadband connectivity - the new resources on our Superfast Essex website will showcase some of the ways in which Essex businesses can benefit. Improving broadband connectivity is one of Essex County Council’s priorities, to help local economic growth and improve the quality of life for the people of Essex.”
Digby Chacksfield, CEO at the Eastern Enterprise Hub said: “We’re very pleased to be working with Superfast Essex to deliver these exciting and informative digital business workshops to small businesses in Essex.
“These free workshops will enable Essex-based entrepreneurs to gain the required knowledge and support to further develop their business offerings, so that they are able to embrace the opportunities provided by being online.”
Workshop participants will gain practical knowledge, combined with confidence and connections, to build their business and accelerate their growth by using broadband to its fullest.
The free workshops will be taking place in the following locations across Essex:
How to stay ahead of competitors online:
How to promote your business online:
They are suitable for current Essex-based entrepreneurs, or individuals intending to set up a business in the near future.
To find out more about the Digital Business Workshops, visit www.superfastessex.org/digitaltoolkit.
Other information on business broadband, including a short film with David Bell, Essex Chair of The Federation of Small Businesses, and Essex County Councillor Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, and Waste & Recycling, on Broadband Improvements in Essex can be viewed by following this link www.superfastessex.org/forbusiness
Find out the latest broadband rollout information for your area at www.superfastessex.org/interactive-maps/. Anyone not covered by the Superfast Essex programme can register their demand for superfast broadband by completing the Make the Connection Survey at www.superfastessex.org/get-involved/.