The Island’s free PopUp Business School returns on Monday 12 October and provides a series of engaging self-employment workshops.
Last year the event helped over 75 Islanders - equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to turn their business ideas into reality.
Due to current restrictions, this year’s course will be delivered online. However, this means that up to 500 participants can sign up to attend this year. Lessons will also be delivered over two weeks, double the usual course length.
Islanders will be able to develop a range of practical lessons as well as gain experience and insights, from learning how to tackle tax returns and reliefs through to skills such as pitching business ideas and personal presentation.
The online training includes a mix of hands-on sessions, one-to-one coaching, workshops and local peer support, all packaged so that Isle of Wight residents can ‘attend’ from the comfort of their homes.
Southern Housing Group Director of Community Investment and Care, Anabel Palmer, said:
‘Southern Housing Group is delighted to help bring the fantastic PopUp Business School to the Isle of Wight. We’ve seen first-hand the benefits attending this course can bring to residents and the skills participants will learn are truly life-changing.’
Toby Eaglen, Sovereign Community Development Officer for the Isle of Wight, said:
‘Sovereign is proud to be sponsoring PopUp Business School on the Isle of Wight. The course is fantastic and will give our residents a real boost to their employability to help them through these challenging times.’
Deputy leader of Isle of Wight Council and cabinet member for strategic finance and COVID-19 recovery, Councillor Stuart Hutchinson, added:
‘The island has been hit particularly hard by the pandemic. That’s why the council are determined to do everything we can to help local people get back on their feet. PopUp Business School was a huge success last year and I am delighted to be welcoming them back to the island.’
Simon Paine, PopUp Business School co-founder and CEO, explained:
‘There’s nothing better than meeting someone with no business experience and guiding them through their first sale - it can transform lives. You don’t need money, experience or a university degree to start a business. You just need an idea, some passion and a bit of help.
‘Many of those attending will leave with a business and a first sale. Those who don’t will still take away business skills, practical advice and confidence. We like to say: ‘this is the best business course money can’t buy.’
For more information and to book a free place, visit: https://events.popupbusinessschool.co.uk/IOWOctober2020
The event will be live-streamed online and runs every weekday from 12 – 23 October between 10am – 3pm.