Chamber Start-up Club turns five in style with Christmas Mix & Mingle networking event

06 Dec 2023

Published in: Black Country Chamber of Commerce News

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The Black Country Chamber of Commerce Start-Up Club celebrated its fifth anniversary when members past and present attended a Christmas networking event in Dudley.

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Representatives of businesses from a range of sectors including financial services through to facilities management and creative teaching joined the annual Start-Up Business Club Christmas Mix & Mingle at Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology, in Zoological Drive, on Tuesday morning.

As well as enjoying mince pies and refreshments, attendees had the chance to look back on the growth of the club for new businesses over the last five years.

As the leading regional support agency for firms in the region, the Black Country Chamber of Commerce launched the Start-Up Business Club in 2018 as part of its drive to provide platforms and opportunities for businesses looking to grow, connect and become part of a thriving network.

The Club contributes to the growth of a start-up business, by providing a supportive environment and valuable connections with the local business community including a dedicated business relationship manager.

Start-up Business Manager Alison Trinder said: “It was fantastic to see so many businesses join us to celebrate the Start-Up Club’s fifth birthday in a morning which really helped everyone get in the Christmas spirit.

“Since we launched the club, new businesses have had to cope with the Covid-19 pandemic plus the lockdowns, as well as the dramatic shifts in the economy, all of which has led to the Chamber offering significant support.

“All those who have not only survived but thrived should be proud of their achievements, so it was great to have so many along, including businesses just starting out on their journeys, for the Christmas Mix & Mingle.

“Our Start-Up Business Club is billed as the place to make new connections, learn from industry experts and develop the skills and understanding required to take your business to the next level. If you are new business looking to get connected, we are here to help you every step of the way.”

Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “Congratulations to the Start-Up Club for reaching their landmark fifth birthday. The Chamber champions the Black Country as a great place for business with the Start-Up Club playing its part in supporting new companies to grow.”

Start-Up Club members are able to attend a series of specially designed workshops addressing specific needs of start-ups and providing networking opportunities to meet peers also taking their first steps. They are encouraged to take up marketing opportunities to promote their business to members and the wider community, with guidance on legislation and business processes.

A wide range of networking events are staged throughout the year to promote start-up member businesses.

For more on the Start-Up Club, visit: www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/membership/membership-packages/the-startup-business-club/