Small businesses given expert advice at networking event

Peabody joined forces with British Business Bank to host a networking afternoon for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on Tuesday 7 November.

Published: 23/11/2023

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The event, held as part of Business Finance Week, gave SMEs the chance to chat with business, legal and financial experts and receive free advice on unlocking their full potential. 

Among the organisations offering guidance were Nat West, Ace Accountancy, Barnes Law Associates, BIZL, CNT, Hatch, Inside Impact and South East Enterprise. Representatives from the University of Greenwich and London South Bank University were also on hand to talk about the support available for businesses, including how they can make the most of skills and talent to scale up.  

Speaking at the event, Helena Hidalgo, of Greens Made Easy, said: “I don’t think I’ve found an organisation that does the stuff that Peabody does…wide ranging and really useful for companies like mine.”

Clive Jelf, of South East Enterprise, said: “I started my first business in the mid-1990s…there wasn’t really this kind of event. It would have helped us at the time to understand that we’re not the only ones going through the issues we’re going through, and there’s people out there that can help…”

James Anthony, from Let’s Talk, said: “The experts have been great…but actually my favourite interactions have been with the other business owners…finding out about what they do…building that network of people you get to know…”  

Christofi Christou, Economic Inclusion Manager at Peabody, said: “Our main job is, of course, to provide homes. But many people don’t know that we also help innovators, aspiring entrepreneurs or already established businesses take their next steps. 

“This event was a great opportunity for us to welcome more businesses to our growing enterprise community and give them the chance to chat to the experts who can help them develop. We look forward to holding more sessions like this in future.”

Depending on what a business needs, Peabody can help with training and advice, funding opportunities and procurement, plus access to a monthly business forum and workspaces. Find out more.

Business Finance Week, from 6 to 10 November, was aimed at helping smaller businesses learn about the different finance options available to them to support their individual needs. British Business Bank worked with partners across the country, including Peabody, to host free in-person events, webinars and more.