HUNDREDS of would-be entrepreneurs flocked to Wrexham last month to attend more than 60 events during Wrexham Business Week.
The event was organised by Wrexham Council's Economic Development Department, supported by the Welsh Development Agency (WDA), and economic development manager, Peter Scott, said the organisers were delighted with the success of the week.
He said: 'Wrexham has an increasingly entrepreneurial culture. Many people dream of running their own businesses, but don't know where to start.
'Wrexham Business Week included a number of events which provided information for people considering becoming self-employed or setting up a new business, as well as events for people who want to develop an existing business or their own personal skills.
'Firms employing up to 49 people make up 97% of the total number of businesses in Wales and together they provide more than 45% of all jobs. It is therefore important for us to support new small businesses and encourage the growth of existing ones.
'Wrexham Council's Economic Development Department helps an average of two new businesses to start up every week and they have an above average success rate.'
High profile speakers during the week included Falklands hero, Simon Weston, whose own experiences demonstrated what can be achieved with a positive attitude; financial guru and presenter of the BBC TV series Your Money or Your Life, Alvin Hall, who shared his experiences from growing up in a small farming community to becoming a Wall Street high flyer, and TV presenter Quentin Willson, who took his audience on a whirlwind tour of the global motor industry and shared his strong views on a range of topics.
Wrexham Businessline, based in Wrexham Library, celebrated 10 years of providing business support and advice by looking into the future of the business world with Professor Richard Scase, who predicted that large, global organisations will become less and less competitive, with small businesses becoming more and more successful.
Elsewhere, there was advice on effective websites and e-commerce, support for innovation, guidance on sourcing grants and controlling debts, tips for successful selling, maintaining personal safety, reducing stress, providing good customer service, and increasing profits.
The annual Mind Your Own Business exhibition drew the attention of BBC TV's Working Lunch team, who were impressed with the range of advice on show.
Peter Scott added: 'There was an excellent response to Wrexham Business Week this year and people are already asking what we are planning for next year's programme - at the moment we can only say it will be another mix of information, inspiration, motivation, and plenty of fun.' Information on support and advice for people considering self-employment, starting a new business or expanding an existing one is available from Wrexham Council's Economic Development Department on (01978) 366366 or e-mail business@wrexham.gov.uk.
