The success stories of four local businesses which have been supported by InvestSefton can today be shared, including a firm that specialises in biodegradable urns and a cafe that’s now able to expand.
InvestSefton, Sefton Council’s business support service, has handled 8,420 business enquiries since March 2020.
The team provides direct support to local firms in the borough as well as organising large events such as Sefton Economic Forum and smaller networking events such as Sefton Huddle and the
Sefton Financial & Professional Network group.
InvestSefton’s aim is to support business growth and sustainability and the team’s outward engagement results in an interesting array of businesses from a range of sectors and sizes. This work is carried out firstly by Business Growth Officers providing an initial triage followed by more detailed diagnostic one-to-one guidance from Business Growth Advisers.
Here are four examples of local businesses helped by InvestSefton:
A sole trader business based in Southport that specialises in biodegradable urns. Following extensive research, the business noticed a gap in the market for this type of urn which is made from calabash from Africa. The business has bought a significant amount of calabash to maintain stock, so does not expect to need to re-order for at least two years.
The business has established a website and generated some sales so far but is looking to increase the sale online through various partnerships with undertakers.
InvestSefton supported the business with a website SEO and provided a report suggesting areas of key improvements as well as identifying key markets for the business to target and prioritising where to target first.
Bootle based business that delivers online law training providing bite sized lessons to contribute toward both CPD and legal qualifications.
The business needs to broaden its catchment area to obtain additional users of the system.
InvestSefton supported the business by reviewing potential funding applications and providing access to events to enable the business to upskill and have access to additional contacts and networking opportunities.
Company that provides specialist engineering and welding services based in Bootle. The business has grown rapidly in recent years and has outgrown its existing premises.
New premises have been identified but financial support is required to purchase new kit.
InvestSefton supported the business to prepare a Business Plan and projections to enable them to apply for funding.
Café and outside catering business based in Southport. The current premises are quite small, and the business now has the opportunity to expand to the unit next door which would enable them to provide an eat-in option.
The space could also generate additional income by being hired out for events and small gatherings.
InvestSefton supported the business with rates review of the additional unit and also researched the use of AI to support marketing activity as well as undertaking a managed referral to the Growth Catalyst programme.
InvestSefton is Sefton Council’s enterprise, business support and inward investment service. It offers free information and advice and access to a wide range of services. It is there to help any business, of any size, in any sector.
People wanting to find out more about how InvestSefton can help support their business, can visit www.investsefton.com or contact the team on 0151 934 3452 or email investsefton@sefton.gov.uk
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