EY/African Business Chamber - Starting Your Business

23rd January 2025 | 9.30am – 12.30pm (lunch and networking 12.30 – 1.30pm)

GM Business Growth Hub’s Enterprising You and the African Business Chamber (AfBC) are delighted to invite you to Start Your Business workshop on Thursday 23rd January 2025.

Hosted by Cody Gapare (MBA), and Senior Enterprise specialist Caroline Jones, this unique event will equip with you with essentials to start your new venture with confidence.

Starting your own business can feel exciting and daunting, especially if it’s your first time. But it’s achievable with the right guidance and support. Whether you’re bursting with passion or feeling a bit nervous, this session will help you take confident steps toward turning your dream into reality.

What We’ll Cover

This workshop addresses the top concerns for new entrepreneurs:

· Mindset: Build resilience, spot opportunities, and overcome fear.

· Marketing: Understand customer needs and create a simple, effective strategy.

· Finances: Learn to manage cash flow, handle taxes, and minimise costs.

Why Attend?

• Clear Guidance: Learn the essential steps to start up with confidence.
• No Jargon: We’ll simplify business terms and concepts.
• Community Support: Connect with other aspiring entrepreneurs and share experiences.

In addition to this morning workshop, you are invited to join us afterwards for a complementary lunch and a great opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs.

Ready to take the leap? Let’s turn your dream into a thriving reality! Book your place today

Eligibility criteria:
As this workshop is fully-funded, businesses are subject to eligibility criteria:

• Pre-revenue businesses only, i.e. individuals residing in Greater Manchester that have an idea for a business, or are starting up but have not made any sales
• Required not to have had any pre-start support from GM Business Growth Hub within the last 2 years

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Bio of Deliverers:

Cody Gapare (MBA)

Cody Gapare (MBA) is a cancer survivor and the multi-award-winning inventor of the first false eyelash for cancer and alopecia sufferers. Her product, C-Lash, launched in collaboration with Eylure during her battle with breast cancer, has revolutionized the beauty industry and is now available in over eight countries. C-Lash has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the 50 Prima High Street Heroes (2019) and winning the Best Lashes in the Red Best of Beauty Awards (2019).

As a former lecturer at Chester University’s Business School, Cody has extensive experience helping businesses grow. She has served on various advisory boards, including the MMU Board of Advisors for the Centre for Professional Excellency and the SMART Cheshire Innovation Board. Cody is also a mentor, coach, and TEDx speaker, known for her inspirational and engaging storytelling. She has been recognized with several nominations and awards, such as Barclays Woman of the Year (2019) and the National Diversity Awards - Entrepreneur of Excellence (2019).

Caroline Jones – GM Business Growth Hub

Caroline is a dedicated and experienced Senior Business Advisor with a proven track record of supporting thousands of individuals in starting their businesses. With a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape, Caroline excels at helping clients identify their strengths, overcome challenges, and carve out their unique competitive edge in their chosen sectors.

Caroline has written and delivered numerous workshops on key topics such as the mindset of entrepreneurs, marketing strategy, digital marketing, managing finance, setting realistic financial goals, and bootstrapping. Her expertise and engaging teaching style have empowered many aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve their business goals.

In addition to her advisory role, Caroline has owned and operated a tearoom in the Scottish Highlands. This venture not only gained accreditation but also earned a spot in the Rough Guide to Scotland, showcasing her ability to successfully manage and grow a business.

About AfBC
Empowering and unlocking the potential of African businesses
The African Business Chamber (AfBC) is a global organisation that represents and supports African firms, investors, and entrepreneurs as they expand and succeed in the global economy. Help global corporations and investors uncover viable trade and investment possibilities in Africa.

About EnterprisingYou

EnterprisingYou is dedicated to supporting individuals at every stage of their self-employment journey. Whether you have a budding business idea, are ready to launch, or are already established as a self-employed individual, freelancer, or gig economy worker in Greater Manchester, we are here to help.

Our tailored programme provides a seamless pathway into self-employment, helping individuals navigate the start-up process, discover new growth opportunities for existing businesses, and develop strategies for long-term success. We offer expert guidance and training through workshops on a variety of topics, from personal skills to marketing and business/personal finance. Self-employed business owners receive one-to-one support from a local specialist advisor.