West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has launched a Rural Business Grants programme to support businesses in the most rural parts of West Northants to diversify and grow.Utilising £919,772 of UK Shared Prosperity (UKSPF) and Rural England Prosperity Funding (REPF), this programme will provide up to 50% of equal match-funding of between £2,500 and £100,000 to businesses located in Defra’s designated rural areas within West Northamptonshire.Grants can be used to support the building and equipment of capital projects, for example converting a farm building for an alternative business use such as a business hub, wedding venue or for hospitality; growing rural tourism; the acquisition of...

15 December, 2023

Networking events are invaluable opportunities for professional growth and expanding your circle. Yet, for many, the thought of stepping into a room filled with unfamiliar faces can trigger nerves and apprehension. Overcoming these jitters is not just a challenge; it's a skill that can be developed and mastered.Here, we share some tips for you to overcome your nerves...

14 December, 2023

Regeneration of the Market Square reached an important milestone this week as the first bespoke market stalls were delivered and installed.The first four of the new 18 bespoke market stalls arrived in Northampton on Tuesday 4 December, and the rest to be completed by spring 2024. The design, cladding and colours of the stalls elegantly compliment the surrounding rich heritage of Northampton’s Market Square.These stalls are a bespoke design with unique features, designed specifically for the needs of the Northampton Market traders. They are made of heavy-duty steel frames with robust cladding, which provides a sustainable and robust product. They...

12 December, 2023

‘Vote YES to keep our estate safe, secure, clean and green’: businesses from Northampton’s Brackmills Industrial Estate gathered this month to officially launch a renewal campaign.Brackmills, home to more than 180 businesses and 11,000 employees, has held Business Improvement District (BID) status for over 14 years, an initiative which sees businesses pool an annual levy and use these funds exclusively for the benefit of the estate.At the official launch of the BID’s renewal campaign Sara Homer, Chief Executive of Brackmills BID, said: “We are now in the final year of our third term as a BID so we have gathered...

12 December, 2023

A popular local estate agency in Corby has welcomed a new recruit to the sales team.Gemma Simpson has joined the fold at Belvoir, in George Street, as a sales consultant.The former recruitment agent changed careers 12 months ago, instead entering the world of property and estate agency working at another Northamptonshire firm.Gemma moved to Belvoir last month to further her career in selling houses.She said: “It has been a brilliant start to my career at Belvoir. The team have been so kind and welcoming and I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting our clients and showing house hunters around the varied properties...

11 December, 2023

ASBESTOS management consultancy Acorn Analytical Services Northampton has been named one of the UK’s best small businesses after winning a Silver Award for High Growth at the National SME Awards in London.The iconic Wembley Stadium was the venue for the ceremony which celebrated the achievements of small to medium-sized enterprises across the UK. Acorn Analytical Services Northampton took home the Silver Award for High Growth in recognition of a remarkable year which has seen them increase turnover, move premises, open a new regional office and grow their team.Director Ian Stone said: “To be able to have our work recognised at...

11 December, 2023

Staff from IT consultancy 3RS IT Solutions have pledged to support a charity which supports adults with mental health needs, autism and learning and physical disabilities, by undertaking fundraising challenges suggested by their social media followers.Director Stephen Souch and Services Operations Manager, Ethan Malvern, will be raising money for Teamwork Trust by participating in a series of activities and challenges over the course of the next year – all of which will be decided by a series of online polls across their social channels.Stephen said: “Some people may know that my son is autistic, and The Teamwork Trust does a...

07 December, 2023

Following the great success of this challenge for the last three years, we are bringing it back by popular demandWe know it can be hard to stay motivated at this time of year, the cold dark weather, the Christmas temptations, these daily challenges motivate you to be active in a fun way – its so much fun the whole family can get involved, even our furry loved ones!A daily fun challenge for 12 days, a great start to work off those Christmas puddings.We are challenging you to stay active and have a bit of festive fun for twelve days, the...

06 December, 2023

Residents of Northamptonshire can embrace a greener Christmas and support vital hospice care this festive season, thanks to Cynthia Spencer Hospice's newly launched Christmas Tree Recycling Scheme.This environmentally friendly initiative offers a convenient way for households to dispose of their real Christmas trees while contributing to a noble cause.Cynthia Spencer Hospice, known for offering excellent specialist palliative care services across West Northamptonshire, has announced that residents can register their real Christmas trees for collection online until 2nd January 2024.A team of dedicated volunteers will collect the trees from outside registered properties between Saturday, 6th January and Tuesday, 9th January 2024,...

06 December, 2023

For one night, give up the luxury of your bed and swap it for a sleeping bag on the floor at the Accommodation Concern Sleepout Fundraiser.Together we can and make a real difference in the lives of those facing homelessness and poverty in North Northamptonshire. By participating as a sleeper or donor, you'll be supporting individuals in our community who are experiencing severe hardship and distress.Your contribution will enable us to provide essential services such as high-quality housing advice, safe supported accommodation, money management assistance, debt and benefits support, and a resettlement programme. These services are crucial in helping individuals...

06 December, 2023

Growing a podcast audience requires a strategic approach that aligns with your content and engages potential listeners effectively. Initially, recognising the importance of targeting a specific audience cannot be overstated. Rather than casting a wide net, pinpoint the unique value your podcast offers and cater to a niche audience. Highlighting uniqueness, like the “Growing Up Halal” creators or Angela Belt’s “The Mood Board,” draws in specific communities hungry for representation.Research becomes your best friend. Dive deep into understanding your audience's demographics, interests, and where they engage online. Leverage Spotify for Podcasters' analytics to uncover listener trends, active platforms, and ideal...

05 December, 2023