“BizFizz were incredibly supportive. Anne provided help and guidance, and she helped me onto a government scheme that provided industrial premises at a discounted rate. Then the Panel found me some essential equipment – I certainly wouldn’t be at the stage I am now without BizFizz.”

Dick acknowledges that Anne’s shrewd advice and support made a real difference. “She’s a very inspirational person, is Anne,” laughs Dick. “She’s great at lifting you out of the doldrums, and tackling the anxieties of running a business.” Dick now works from a full industrial workshop, and has already started building a solid client base.

Dick Heron, Bizfizz client, Norwich

Networking in Belgrave


nef (new economics foundation)
3 Jonathan Street, London, SE11 5NH. Tel: 020 7820 6300 Fax: 020 7820 6301
BizFizz National Co-ordinator (nef): Natalia Fernandez
Bizfizz Programme Manager (nef):
Elizabeth Cox
www.neweconomics.org


The Civic Trust
2nd Floor, Essex Hall, 1-6 Essex Street, London
WC2R 3HU.
Tel: 020 7539 7900
Fax: 020 7539 7901

BizFizz National Co-ordinator (Civic Trust): Lynne Jones
mobile: 07731789654
BizFizz Programme Manager (Civic Trust): Paul Squires
mobile: 07703743418
BizFizz Project Coordinator (Civic Trust): Bridget Orr
tel: 0207 539 7909
www.civictrust.org.uk
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BizFizz is different
BizFizz is an innovative programme for entrepreneurs focusing on start-ups, micro and small enterprises in areas experiencing economic disadvantage. It turns the passion and enthusiasm of individuals into a driving force for local economic renewal by mobilising the skills and resources within communities.

Promoting and supporting local enterprise should be part of any strategy for economic regeneration. Local businesses are more likely to employ local people, provide services to improve the local quality of life, spend money locally and so circulate wealth in the community, help people to achieve their dreams, become skilled and confident, and promote community cohesion.

Passion is our currency
Our approach is to uncover people's passions and then remove the barriers to them achieving success.

Who?
BizFizz works with passionate people in relatively small and defined communities where there is some level of economic disadvantage. The entrepreneur can be living in the area, trading in the area or moving into the area.

What types of business?
BizFizz is accessible to all. We can help any business, whatever stage it's at from a new idea to already trading. There are no restrictions based on the size or structure of the business, whether it is a sole-trader, a partnership, a company or a social enterprise. BizFizz can also help any sector: retail, distribution, manufacturing and services.

Complementary approach
BizFizz aims to complement existing services such as Business Links and Enterprise Agencies by offering a community-based approach that not only enhances networking within the community, but also reduces barriers to use these services. It incorporates representatives of such organisations onto the Local Panel in order to ensure best possible service and opportunities for clients whether they are start-ups or existing businesses.

Reaching people and places
BizFizz transforms communities and fosters sustainable development by building economic and social capital, and supporting environmentally sound ideas. BizFizz also brings to a community:

  • A dedicated Coach promoting entrepreneurship and the importance of local weath creation
  • Positive publicity for local enterprise and the idea of community development through entrepreneurship
  • A Local Panel of key people who act as a network for entrepreneurs, helping them unblock problems and providing key information and contacts
  • Increased confidence and sense of self-reliance among the community as a whole. A move from dependence on external solutions to generating your own and fostering development of local visions
  •  A better networked and connected community with private, public and community sectors working together, building a culture of confidence..

Getting results
BizFizz outcomes:

  • Increased business start-up and survival
  • Job creation
  • Improved personal incomes for entrepreneurs, their employees and sub-contractors
  • Retention of wealth in the community
  • The building up of economic capital in the community.

BizFizz® trademark and copyright statement