A THAMES Valley business hub is hoping to increase diversity with its new networking class.
The Business Growth Hub, run by Thames Valley Berkshire, is launching a new ‘women in business’ group, as well as mixed cohort groups, to support the region’s small- to medium-sized companies (SMEs).
The initiative forms part of the Government’s Peer Networks scheme which has brought business leaders together up and down the country to discuss challenges and opportunities for SMEs.
The Growth Hub will deliver the programme through six online group sessions where people can network and share first-hand experiences in their industry.
Julian Mobbs, from the Berkshire Growth Hub, said: “Diversity in business can drive growth and generate new opportunities, which is why we are keen to attract business leaders from all industries, backgrounds and ethnicities.
“We are particularly keen to encourage more female business leaders to sign-up for the programme.
“We’d also like to see more applications from companies in the creative and digital tech sectors.”
Rita Gupta, managing director of LGFL, a law firm in Berkshire, was one of the first business leaders to join the programme.
She said it allowed her to speak only and be vulnerable about challenges she has faced in work.
“The concept of the Peer Networks programme was really positive,” Ms Gupta explained. “I gained some valuable insights into how other businesses work and ideas for my own business.
““I was the only female in my group on the programme, so I am pleased to see that the Berkshire Growth Hub will be offering both mixed and women-only groups this year to encourage more female business leaders to take part.”
Sabina Gonzalez-George, marketing director of CREAT3D in Winnersh, added: “Joining Peer Networks was an excellent way to schedule in time for wider business discussions and sound out ideas with other business leaders who face similar pressures and challenges as you.
“You can always learn something new, so the programme is a brilliant way to test an idea and gain objective feedback.”
The programme is open to SMEs with at least five employees and an annual turnover of at least £100,000. There are multiple start dates.
For more information, visit: www.berkshirebusinesshub.co.uk
