The Insider

Business Link Service to Close

Government has announced that the Business Link regional service in Kent is being closed in November 2011. Future public expenditure will be spent on increasing the number of high growth businesses and on improving the information and guidance to business provided online and over the phone.

We are aware that many Chamber members across East Kent have been using Business Link services throughout the past decade and we will be most interested to learn how this decision is going to impact on them and what ‘support’ is likely to be needed by local businesses from now on.

Please email your comments to Peter.hobbs@channel chamber.co.uk

BUSINESS FORUM - 'New Tax Rules for 2011'

Canterbury Christchurch University are holding their next Business Forum on Tuesday 18th January at Hall Place
, Hall Place Enterprise Centre, Canterbury, commencing with a networking breakfast and coffee at 7.45 hrs (finishing approximately 10.30 hrs). Cost £10 payable by cheque or cash on the day.

The presenters for this event are Sue Clarke and Karen Burns from the Business Advice team at HM Revenue & Customs who will provide an update on all the new policies regarding business tax in the coming year.

To book please email fonte-maria.totaro@canterbury.ac.uk or call on 01227 782666.

EU grants for innovative SME's

EUREKA 's Eurostars Programme is the first European funding and support programme to be specifically dedicated to SMEs. Eurostars aims to stimulate small & medium sized businesses to lead international collaborative research and innovation projects by easing access to support and funding.

For further information http://www.eurostars-.eu/ or telephone Channel Chamber for further information on 01303 270022.

Kent Trading Standards Guidance and advice

Kent Trading Standards is responsible for enforcing a wide range of consumer legislation concerning fair trading, quality, quantity and safety and to control farm animal welfare and disease. They offer advice and information to help local businesses comply with the law and work to national guidelines

For guidance and advice businesses are invited to visit their website at http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/kent/business.htm If you would prefer to talk to someone and you are based in East Kent please phone: 01233 898825 or email: trading.standardseast@kent.gov.uk

Green Business Grading Award

Our congratulations to Chamber member - The Ramada Hotel Dover who have achieved a Silver Grading at their first inspection by Green Business UK. To achieve this grading the Ramada has implemented a strong environmental policy together with procedures and a plan to minimise energy consumption. Part of this plan has included buying locally wherever possible.

If you are interested in any tips or advice about achieving this award please contact Trevor Bond (Group Sales & Marketing Manager - Ramada Hotel Dover) on 01304 821230