Small businesses in the West of England are being invited to take part in a virtual event next week aimed at helping boost digital skills and recover from the pandemic.
The session, on September 9, is being hosted by Facebook and not-for-profit organisation Be the Business and will provide free advice and digital training, including using Instagram for business, business finances and innovating a business model.
South West-based companies including This Mum Runs, Red & Ginger, The Watergate Bay Hotel, and Inn Cornwall will also be taking part in the event.
Sir Charlie Mayfield, chair of Be the Business, said: 'It’s a tragedy that it’s taken a global pandemic to do it, but we are seeing a huge drive for efficiency, interest in technology and innovation from UK businesses.
“Our event in the South West will capitalise on that ambition, providing guidance and resources to the firms who need it most.
“Small businesses will be at the heart of the UK’s economic recovery, and Be the Business, alongside our partner Facebook, is committed to helping them succeed.”
According to recent Facebook research, 55 per cent of UK small businesses surveyed are now making more than a quarter of sales online, while a report from Be the Business found 27 per cent of South West firms have changed their approach to technology since March.
Steve Hatch, VP for Northern Europe at Facebook, said: “We’re committed to doing everything we can to help small businesses in these challenging times.
“Our tools can help smaller companies trade online and effectively reach new customers around the world so they can create and sustain jobs in [region].
“We’re delighted to be partnering with Be the Business to offer a programme of tailored advice and training that will help small businesses get the most value from our platforms.”
The event is part of a year-long partnership between Be the Business and Facebook.
For more information or to register to attend, visit facebook.com/business/boost/uk-boost-online
