Mark Dixon, CEO of Regus said: "Whilst the government has announced plans to get the unemployed and small businesses moving again, it's vital the private sector takes decisive action now to support people who want to set up their own business.
"We believe the key to kick-starting the economy is to help our entrepreneurs create new enterprise, the life blood of the economy. I'd encourage other private sector companies to support the movement and develop similar packages."
The campaign is backed by the Birtish Chamber of Commerce (BCC). Its managing director, John Dunsmure, said: "Entrepreneurs and small companies are currently being squeezed on all sides - from declining consumer confidence to increasing energy and office costs as well as lack of access to credit. Small business closures have risen to around 85 a day, meaning over 6,000 have closed since October 2008 creating a huge amount of redundant people.
Mentoring sessions
The BCC will run a number of mentoring sessions for entrepreneurs throughout the year in Regus centres across the country. Their business experts will provide support and guidance to all those embarking on a new venture.
Latest figures show the number of new businesses opening in the third quarter of 2008 fell by just four per cent to 129,282, improving on expectations for a 10 per cent decline. The research suggests there is still a desire to embark on new business ventures despite increasingly volatile economic conditions.
Under the scheme, Regus is offering unlimited use of its business lounges and cafés in over 1,000 locations worldwide by signing people up to its businessworld program.
Potential Entrepreneurs can access three options within the scheme:
For more information, see www.regus.co.uk/getstarted or by visiting any Regus centre.
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Susie Hughes
The Editor © Hardhatter 2009