Chamber of Commerce starts TimeBank to help start-ups

Published on Wednesday 28 September 2011 10:34

A unique new scheme which helps businesses to obtain the help they need to start-up, grow and thrive was launched by Central Bedfordshire Council in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce.

The new initiative called Timebank will match local providers of business services such as marketing, financial planning, sales and HR to businesses that are looking to start up, grow or move into the area. The packages on offer include a free initial consultation on a wide range of business related topics with the aim of building long term relationships between companies. Timebank will provide a local support service when Business Link East ceases operation in November 2011.

Cllr Ken Matthews, Executive Member for Strategic Planning and Economic Development for Central Bedfordshire Council, who hosted the event commented; “This is an innovative programme and one of only a few which is fully up and running throughout England.

“Timebank offers a ‘win win’ solution to local businesses. It’s a great business development opportunity for those providing services and free initial business support for those looking to set up or grow. We are committed to achieving 27,000 new jobs by 2026 and we will encourage businesses to work together to help each other achieve this.”

The key to ‘Timebank’ is that the services will be provided by senior representatives of professional firms, at no cost to the end user. This will help local businesses to launch or develop and will help create the jobs needed to sustain the economy.

Cllr Matthews added; “It was great to see around 40 businesses attend the business breakfast and we hope this new initiative will also act as an incentive to other new business, attracting potential employers to the area.”

For more information about Central Bedfordshire’s Timebank scheme and to get involved in the initiative, contact business@centralBedfordshire.gov.uk or call 0300 300 5297.

http://www.leightonbuzzardonline.co.uk/news/local-news/central_beds_timebank_opens_for_business_1_3098320