Welsh ICE launches intensive business course

Caerphilly-based Welsh ICE, an innovation centre for start-up businesses, has launched a new course to support aspiring entrepreneurs through the early stages of enterprise.

It’s working with the Fairwood Trust, Harding Evans and Chwarae Teg to deliver the 5-9 club, which will run every Thursday evening over a 12-week period.

The sessions will consist of specialist mentors, workshops and industry experts and include advice on marketing, development and finance.

These support founders and start-up businesses in scaling up their enterprises through a fully-funded package offering up a full-time desk, a tailored mentoring programme and world-class workshops.

The first round of funding will be exclusive to female entrepreneurs. A recent report from private banking firm Kleinwort Benson found that 42% of women felt they had to overcome major obstacles compared to 32% of men. Women also feared failing in business more than the opposite sex, but once established, they were more likely to succeed in setting up a successful business.

Joy Kent, chief executive of Chwarae Teg said: “Chwarae Teg is dedicated to supporting women in business and is therefore delighted to be involved in a scheme such as the Welsh ICE 5-9 club. This initiative will not only give the selected women the motivation and confidence to grow their own business, but will also offer them the support and resources needed as well.”

Gareth Jones, CEO of Welsh ICE, said: “It’s excellent to be working in partnership with the Fairwood Trust and Chwarae Teg to deliver this initiative. The Cardiff Capital Region is now emerging as a hub for start-up business in the UK, and it’s essential that we can support aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Our vision for ICE was to create a space which allows its members the opportunity to create the businesses that they want to create – with incredible role models, advisors and advocates sat next to them to help offer insight that isn’t available when they’re working from the back-bedroom or dining table.”

The closing date for the first round of applications (only open for female entrepreneurs at this point) is September 30th. You can do so .