Pink Shoe Club partnered with the W2W Professional Women’s Network for its second event, held in association with the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Entrepreneurship at Smith & Williamson’s HQ in Moorgate.
The debate, whether Government should support new businesses or focus resources on established entrepreneurs with a proven business, was energetic and absorbing.
Chaired by Jackie Stevenson (above, 2nd left) Our panellists – Mark Field MP, Jo Gideon and Anna Sofat (above, L-R) each gave a short presentation putting forward their personal view.
Mark believes that practical measures such as NI holidays for new businesses or SMEs would boost employment and thus the economy. Jo Gideon agreed, telling us that if 1/3 of the UK’s SMEs each employed one trainee we would eradicate youth unemployment!
As a small business owner, Anna was keen to remind us of the passion inherent in entrepreneurs. And that the skills small businesses add to the economy benefit the wider environment in which they operate. Jo’s experience on TV’s Village SOS demonstrated that it is possible to create a small, viable business in even the most rural area.
There are a range of measures that will assist the long term success of small business especially education that is more relevant to the needs of employers, enabling greater flexibility, and a continued focus on reducing red tape.
Brilliantly chaired by Jackie, as the discussion expanded it was clear that with both the panel and the audience consensus was reached. Government needs to target resources at both new and established SMEs.
The evening continued with networking over drinks and canapés. It was a good chance to meet many of the senior women from Smith & Williamson, along with PWN members and guests.