Be Your Own Boss events for military women roll out across county

Free business start-up workshops for military leavers, spouses and partners in Wiltshire have been warmly welcomed by those attending the first sessions – with more events still to come.

The Be Your Own Boss mornings are being held around the county’s military communities offering help, advice and inspiration to turn a spark of an idea into a viable business.

The next is at Tidworth Leisure Centre on Wednesday, June 17 with others planned at Bulford, Warminster, Royal Wootton Bassett and Tidworth.

The informal, coffee morning-style events are funded by Wiltshire Council through The Enterprise Network, which supports start-up and growing micro businesses across Swindon and Wiltshire. Workshops are led by Wiltshire Business Support Service.

The mornings are designed for military spouses and partners who may have spotted a business opportunity, or are looking to turn a hobby or creative talent into an income, or thinking of resurrecting a former career by going self-employed.

Former RAF Wing Commander Louise Carver from Chippenham, who retired eight years ago and now runs her own learning and development consultancy, was a speaker at the first Be Your Own Boss events at Ludgershall and Tidworth.

“The delegates had business ideas ranging from holiday cabins in Canada and tourist boat trips in the Caribbean, to lampshades and beauty therapy,” she said.

“Some had previous experience of running a business while others were simply mulling over the idea and looking for some advice and inspiration. It was a lively session with lots of questions and discussion. Delegates seemed to value learning useful, practical information and it was particularly good to see mutual support networks being developed.”

Kate Forrest, manager of The Enterprise Network said: “We’re delighted to hear such excellent feedback about these events designed specifically for military spouses and partners. There is so much potential for launching new businesses at the moment, and we’re here to help right from the first lightbulb moment.”

The Be Your Own Boss events are open to military spouses or partners and include free childcare, coffee and cake. To book a free place, visit www.theenterprisenetwork.co.uk/civvystreet call 01225 402096 or email events@inspirebiz.co.uk

The free Be Your Own Boss events are taking place from 9.30am until 12.30pm at the following locations:

• Tidworth Leisure Centre June 17
• Bulford Beeches Community Centre June 24
• Tidworth Garrison Theatre July 8
• Warminster Community Centre July 15
• Royal Wootton Bassett Manor House Enterprise Centre July 17
• Tidworth Leisure Centre September 23

To meet some military women who have started their own businesses, see our feature, first published in April, at www.businessbiscuit.com/news/2692-military-wives