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Your August newsletter

Contact the West Sussex Growth Hub WSCC.GrowthHub@westsussex.gov.uk www.westsussex.gov.uk

Your August newsletter

We’re embracing the energy and momentum that this season brings to our local business community. Whether you're scaling up, starting out, or simply looking for fresh inspiration, our West Sussex Growth Hub team is here to support you every step of the way.

In this month’s newsletter, we’re spotlighting exciting business support opportunities, upcoming events designed to connect and empower local entrepreneurs, and practical resources to help your business thrive. 

 

Who are we?
At the West Sussex Growth Hub, we’re here to help businesses across the county grow, adapt, and succeed. We’re your local gateway to expert advice, practical support, and valuable connections. We’re part of a national network of Growth Hubs, funded by Department of Business and Trade and delivered through West Sussex County Council. 

Get in touch by emailing the team here.

 

  
 

Made Smarter South East - Webinar

CALLING ALL MANUFACTURERS, MAKERS AND CREATORS! 

Join Made Smarter South East for an enlightening online event where the team will be discussing the Made Smarter programme in the South East.

Each speaker will take you through the support and funding that's available to manufacturers, makers and creators, to help you boost your business productivity, efficiency and growth through technology adoption.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and take your business to the next level.

Spaces are limited, so register now to secure your spot!

25th September | 12.30pm - 1.15pm | Online 
Sign up here.

 

  
 

Future CEO - Our Peer Support Programme

We’re excited to launch Future CEO, a new programme designed for business owners who’ve built something solid and are now asking, “What’s next?”

This isn’t a seminar or networking event. It’s a small, carefully selected group of local leaders meeting monthly to tackle real business challenges together. Each session is structured, confidential, and led by an expert facilitator, with tailored 1-to-1 coaching included.

It’s about strategy, mindset, leadership, and clarity. A space for honest conversations and practical support.

We’re looking for business owners who:

  • Have traded for 2+ years
  • Turn over £250k+
  • Employ 3+ people
  • Are open to learning and sharing

ONLY 9 SPACES AVAILABLE across West Sussex. 

Interested? Email WSCC.GrowthHub@westsussex.gov.uk to express interest.

Even if it’s not for you, please share with someone who might benefit. The right nudge can make all the difference.

 

  
 

Introducing Skills Bootcamps: fast-track, industry-recognised training

West Sussex County Council has launched Skills Bootcamps, a new initiative designed to strengthen the county’s talent pipeline and support local business growth.

Developed with local employers, expert training providers and business networks, Skills Bootcamps offer flexible, sector-focused training that equip the county’s residents and workforce with technical and soft skills employers need.

Whether you're seeking to find new work-ready talent, address skills or recruitment challenges, or upskill your team, Skills Bootcamps provide a fresh take on training and a practical route to success.

Key features:
• Open to adults aged 19+ living or working in West Sussex
• Flexible formats designed to fit around work, life and learning needs
• Focused on in-demand, job-ready skills across industries
• Co-designed with local businesses and employer representative bodies to align with current workforce needs.

Courses are available in many sectors including:
• Health & Social Care
• Creative & Digital
• Construction
• Horticulture & Viticulture
• Tourism & Hospitality
• Education & Early Years
...and more.

Skills Bootcamps help close skills gaps, reduce hiring risks and offer access to local candidates equipped with work-ready, industry-relevant expertise.

Explore upcoming courses and how your business or team can benefit: www.westsussex.gov.uk/skillsbootcamps 

 

  
 

The Better Business Show

Get ready for an exciting business event! The Better Business Show is your chance to network, connect, and grow and best of all, it’s completely free to attend.

Join hundreds of local business people from across industries for a high-energy day packed with opportunities.

And guess what? We’ll be there too! The West Sussex Growth Hub team is exhibiting, ready to meet you, share support, and talk about how we can help your business thrive.

Don’t miss out! Come along, bring a colleague, and make the most of this brilliant day. And it's FREE to attend. 
Sign up here.

 

  
 

Read to kickstart your business?

THE BUSINESS KICKSTART WORKSHOP IS HERE!

Join us for an inspiring and practical in-person event at The Shoreham Centre, designed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to thrive.

This workshop is suitable for people who:

  • Are thinking of starting a business 
  • Have just started running a business
  • Or who have been trading for 1 year

This workshop also offers a dynamic mix of expert-led sessions, actionable advice, and valuable networking opportunities, all completely free of charge.

What to expect
The day is structured into three engaging and interactive sessions:

Finances made simple
Demystify your business finances with clear guidance on money management, and understanding the numbers that matter.

Operations & running the show
Discover strategies to streamline your daily operations and plan for long-term growth, helping you run your business with confidence and efficiency. 

Boost your social media content
Learn how to boost your social media content with practical tips on creating engaging content, connecting with customers, and promoting your business effectively.

Why attend?
• Expert-led, friendly sessions
• Practical tools and real-world advice
• Great networking with like-minded entrepreneurs
• Receive a free digital business support information book
• Free refreshments throughout the day
• 100% free to attend

Eligibility: You must be an entrepreneur based in West Sussex.

Tuesday 21st October | 10am - 3pm | The Shoreham Centre
To secure your spot, sign up via the Eventbrite page here.

 

  
 

Events with Chichester District Council

Bitesize Business Boost Workshop
 
Bitesize Business Boost: AI for Small Businesses – Navigating the Risks, Reaping the Rewards
3rd October | 12:30–1:30 PM
Chichester District Council Offices

Ready to demystify AI and discover how it can power your business forward? Join us for the next Bitesize Business Boost lunchtime workshop – a free, friendly session designed to give small businesses practical insights into the world of artificial intelligence.

What you’ll gain:

  • Real-world applications of AI for small businesses
  • Key risks to be aware of – and how to manage them
  • Actionable tips to help you get started
  • Just bring your lunch and curiosity!

This event is part of the Bitesize Business Boost series, a partnership between Chichester District Council and the University of Chichester, supporting local business growth.

Spaces are limited – register now to secure your place!

 
The 2025 Chichester & District Business Awards
Is your business a local hero? Or do you know one that deserves the spotlight? 
Has your business:

  • Gone above and beyond for customers?
  • Grown against the odds?
  •  Delivered innovative solutions?
  • Led the way in sustainability and climate adaptation?

Now’s your chance to shine - or help someone else get the recognition they deserve!

The 2025 Chichester & District Business Awards, hosted by the Chichester Observer Series in partnership with Chichester District Council and Chichester BID, are now open for nominations! 

Find out about the nomination categories here, or find out more and nominate here.

 

  
 

Horsham District Jobs and Skills Fair

There are just a few stands left for local employers to book at the Horsham District Jobs & Skills Fair 2025. 

This year’s event takes place on Saturday 27 September 2025, 10am - 2pm at Horsham's Drill Hall. 

Over the years, Horsham District's Jobs and Skills Fairs have supported local businesses to recruit new staff and welcomed hundreds of local jobseekers. 

Attract new talent, access exposure for your business and network with other local businesses and training providers. 

Book your stand today!

 

  
 

Inspire and elevate your business ambition with Create South East in Chichester

Are you a creative entrepreneur looking to grow your business, connect with like-minded professionals, and discover local support opportunities? Join the Adventures and Wisdom team for two inspiring events designed to energise and elevate your ambitions.

You'll hear from local seasoned creative entrepreneurs and those emerging from the Create South East business support programme, with signposting to other local support organisations and initiatives.

These events are for creatives at all stages - freelancers, micro-business owners and anyone looking for support to take their creative and or digital business to the next level.

Chichester: Tuesday 23 September 2025
Worthing: Tuesday 30 September 2025

  
 

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