Month: July 2024

Introducing Work Wise employment support programme for jobseekers

Published 29 July 2024

Advice and support, Business news, Skills and workforce

Businesses are invited to get involved in Work Wise, a free employment support programme aimed at jobseekers aged over 16 who may struggle to get into work due to health issues or disability.

It has been designed to empower and bolster the local workforce, by providing support to jobseekers and improving their employment opportunities, and by supporting businesses to increase their workforce diversity and fill vacancies.

The programme is being delivered by Surrey County Council in partnership with Surrey Choices, Richmond Fellowship, Get Set UK, Surrey Welfare Rights Unit and Citizens Advice.ย 

Employment support for individuals

Individuals who register on the scheme will be paired with a dedicated employment specialist. For scheme participants who are already employed, their dedicated specialist will support them to stay in work, and for jobseekers, the specialist will assist with their job search and applications, assisting with CV writing, interview preparation and benefits advice.

Work Wise support for businesses

Surrey County Council will work with suitable businesses and employers in the County to help deliver the Work Wise programme. The Council can support businesses by helping to identify suitable roles, matching jobseekers to skills gaps, and importantly, providing training and advice to develop inclusive employee support services which benefit both employee and employer.

Mark Nuti, Surrey County Councilโ€™s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, and Public Health said:

โ€œMaking job opportunities accessible to everyone is very important to us. However, we know that people with disabilities or health challenges often face big challenges when trying to find work, so Iโ€™m delighted we are launching this initiative, providing vital employment support for those who need it most. Work Wise marks a significant step forward in improving job opportunities and breaking down barriers, empowering residents whilst helping to reduce unemployment rates, and fostering successful futures in our communities across Surrey so that no one is left behind.โ€

Businesses interested in taking part in the Work Wise scheme to help fill vacancies and get support to become a more inclusive employer can find out more here: www.surreycc.gov.uk/workwise  

Looking for free support and advice for your Surrey business?

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing free and accessible support for all businesses in Surrey.

Find out more about what we do and how to access our many business support services by completing our Contact Us form.

Or you can browse our directory of business support in Surrey. The directory includes more than 120 local, regional and national schemes and initiatives providing support, guidance and help with funding.

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Ramon.Space land in Surrey in boost to county’s space sector

Published 25 July 2024

Business news, Innovation

Surrey leaders have welcomed the expansion of a leading space computing company into the county – a move that underlines the region as a thriving place to do business.

Ramon.Space, a global pioneer in space computing and communications, has selected the innovative business community at Surrey Research Park as the โ€˜launchpadโ€™ for their new UK subsidiary.

This milestone underscores the regionโ€™s growing reputation as a premier location for space innovators.

It also promises investment in the region and good-quality jobs for local residents – underlining why the Council is committed to supporting innovation in key sectors as part of wider efforts to grow the Surrey economy.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “Surrey is a leading regional economy and is home to an increasing number of companies within the space sector, drawn to our fantastic location, highly-skilled workforce and excellent reputation for innovation and research.

“Attracting a growing international business such as Ramon.Space to the region is a real boon, bringing investment and good-quality jobs for our residents. It is also testament to the collaborative, innovative and entrepreneurial environment within Surrey Research Park and the wider region.”

About Ramon.Space and its move to Surrey

Ramon.Space UK will serve as a key engineering hub, driving innovation and accelerating advancements in space computing and communications both within the UK and globally.

The company is embarking on significant hiring initiatives to attract top local talent, aiming to enhance its engineering capabilities and foster cutting-edge innovation.

Avi Shabtai, Chief Executive Officer at Ramon.Space, said: “We see tremendous potential in the UK space sector and are eager to contribute to its growth.

“Our high-performance computing systems and processors are designed to meet the rigorous demands of satellite and deep space missions, empowering government agencies and commercial providers to achieve mission success with confidence.”

Ramon.Space is the 10th space sector company to be based at Surrey Research Park, further bolstering the regionโ€™s position in the global space industry. 

Additionally, it is the second international space company this year to select the location in Guildford for strategic entry into the UK and European markets.

Caroline Fleming, Director of the Surrey Innovation District, which includes Surrey Research Park, said: โ€œWeโ€™re incredibly excited to welcome the Ramon.Space team into our innovative business community and Space South Central industry cluster.

โ€œSurrey Research Park has a legacy of being at the cutting-edge of pioneering space technology and weโ€™re thrilled Ramon.Space has recognised the unique benefits we offer businesses looking to seize opportunities in the UK and European space markets.

โ€œWeโ€™re especially looking forward to supporting Ramon.Space to thrive as they advance space-based computing and communications, pivotal to unlocking the potential of space.โ€

Surrey Research Park: A Premier Hub for Space Pioneers

Ramon.Space has joined a distinguished group of international companies at Surrey Research Park, solidifying the park’s status as a top choice for space sector pioneers entering the UK and European markets.

This spring, Australian innovators Myriota, which specialises in satellite communications for Internet of Things devices, also chose the park as their UK base, becoming the Parkโ€™s ninth space company.

They join fellow international space pioneers like isardSAT, earth observation experts from Spain, and global aerospace leader Airbus, based in Toulouse, France.

Visit the Space page on the Surrey Research Park website for more information on opportunities for space-related companies.

A group of about 40 people look at the camera for a work group shot

Business Surrey launch video

Published 23 July 2024

Business news

Want to know more about Business Surrey? Check out the Business Surrey launch video below.

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service offering free and accessible support to businesses across the county.

From start-ups to longstanding SMEs, Surrey companies of all sizes, sectors and stages of their business journey can access expert support for no cost via the new Business Surrey website.

It was officially launched by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt at an event in Godalming in May.

Also speaking was Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council; Shahid Azeem, the High Sheriff of Surrey; and local tech entrepreneur Terence Naidu. Representatives from Surrey County Council, business groups, universities and the countyโ€™s 11 district and borough authorities were among those attending.

Click on the play button below to watch the Business Surrey launch video.

Are you a Surrey business looking for free support?

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing free and accessible support for all businesses in Surrey.

We want you to grow and succeed – and have a range of ways you can access support for your company.

  • Ready to take your business to the next level? Need new or upgraded skills to adapt to new ways of working? Or do you just require advice on how to access funding and grants? Our team of experts can provide independent and impartial advice on exploring opportunities and how to tackle various challenges. Contact the team for free via our Business Support Form.
  • Find out more about what we do and how to access one of our many business-friendly services by completing our Contact Us form.
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Spelthorne Business Awards 2024

Published 22 July 2024

Business news, Events and awards

Applications are now open for the 2024 Spelthorne Business Awards. Organised by Spelthorne Borough Council, and sponsored by Business Surrey, the Awards are now in their sixth year, and are a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the best and brightest businesses in Spelthorne.

There are 15 categories in total, catering for the whole range of Spelthorne-based businesses; large or small, online or bricks-and-mortar, new or well-established. One overall winner will be crowned Spelthorneโ€™s Best Business 2024.

Entries are open now, and the closing date is midnight on Monday 16 September. Finalists will be announced on Tuesday 8 October, with winners announced at the black-tie Awards Ceremony to be held on Friday 1 November.

All businesses with a Spelthorne trading address are invited to enter, and there is no entry fee.

Award Categories

Donโ€™t miss this opportunity to gain recognition for your businessโ€™s achievements and stand out from the competition. The following categories are open to all businesses located in the district, no matter whether you are an established business or a budding start-up.

  • Best Business in Staines-upon-Thames and Laleham
  • Best Business in Sunbury and Halliford
  • Best Business in Ashford and Stanwell
  • Best Business in Shepperton and Charlton Village
  • Best New Start Up Award
  • Best Small Business Award
  • Best Restaurant, Bar or Pub Award
  • Business Innovation Award
  • Sustainability Award
  • Best Franchise Award
  • Overseas Trader of the Year Award
  • Retail Excellence Award
  • Best Hospitality and Leisure Business
  • Best Construction and Property Business
  • Best Corporate Social Responsibility Business Award

For more details and to enter, visit www.spelthornebusinessawards.co.uk

Other Surrey Business Awards

There are plenty of other opportunities for Surrey businesses to achieve recognition and celebrate their achievements. There are a range of other awards events taking place across Surrey this year, including the King’s Award for Enterprise, and the Tandridge Business Awards.

A gold star on a starry background - Spelthorne Business Awards - Business Surrey

Growth Guarantee Scheme launched to help smaller businesses

Published 18 July 2024

Advice and support, Funding and grants

Smaller businesses in Surrey can now get access to finance to invest in and grow their company via the British Business Bankโ€™s Growth Guarantee Scheme (GSS).

The new scheme is the successor to the Recovery Loan Scheme and has been designed to support UK smaller businesses to access the finance they need to invest and grow.

So far, there are 41 accredited lenders providing access to finance under the Scheme, with more expected to be accredited by the British Business Bank over the coming weeks.

The GGS will provide access to a range of different types of finance to suit the needs of smaller businesses, including term loans, overdrafts, asset finance, invoice finance and asset-based lending.

The Key Features of the Scheme

The key features of the GGS are broadly similar to those of its predecessor, The Recovery Loan Scheme, and include:

  • Finance available from ยฃ1,000 up to ยฃ2m per business group, depending on the type of finance product
  • Wide range of products including: term loans, overdrafts, asset finance, invoice finance and asset-based lending facilities
  • Term length:โ€ฏTerm loans and asset finance facilities are available from three months up to six years, with overdrafts, invoice finance and asset-based lending available from three months up to three years
  • Access to multiple schemes:โ€ฏBusinesses that took out a Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS), Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) or a Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS) facility before 30 June 2024 may still access the Growth Guarantee Scheme
  • Pricing:โ€ฏFees and interest rates charged by lenders will vary but will take into account the benefit to the lender of the Government guarantee
  • Personal Guarantees: Can be taken at the lenderโ€™s discretion, in line with their normal commercial lending practices. (Principal Private Residences cannot be taken as security within the scheme)
  • Guarantee is to the lender:โ€ฏThe scheme provides the lender with a 70% government-backed guarantee. Please note: the borrower always remains 100% liable for the debt
  • Decision-making is at the lenderโ€™s discretion:โ€ฏfinance is provided at the discretion of the lender subject to their usual credit application checks.

How do I apply for the Growth Guarantee Scheme?

More information on the Growth Guarantee Scheme, including the list of accredited lenders, is available on the British Business Bank website.

What other support is available for smaller businesses in Surrey?

We offer a range of advice and support for Surrey businesses. Get in touch today to find out more via our business support form.

You can also search for information and support available near you via our Support Directory.

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Students get early taste for cyber careers at special event

Published 15 July 2024

Innovation, Skills and workforce

Cyber-curious students from Ash Manor School have been inspired to consider future careers in the sector after taking part in a special one-day workshop.

The event was hosted by Surrey County Council in collaboration with the Surrey Cyber Security Cluster (SCSC) and SATRO Education Charity as part of the Inspire Surrey pilot program, and was held at the Hogs Back Hotel in Farnham.

The Digital Detectives Challenge

The โ€˜Digital Detective Challengeโ€™ was developed to harness the imagination of the students and encourage them to consider a future career in this exciting and fast-growing industry.

At the end of the day, almost all of the year 8 students taking part (28 out of 31) said they would now consider taking up a career in cyber โ€“ a resounding success for the day.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Councilโ€™s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: โ€œCyber security is a growing, highly innovative sector of huge importance to our regional economy. Events like this are fantastic to really capture the interest of enquiring young minds โ€“ the vital future leaders of this sector – and ensure cyber securityโ€™s continued growth and success in Surrey. Iโ€™m delighted the event was such a triumph for all participants.โ€

Surrey is a world-leader in cyber security, as home to a large and growing number of security firms and consultancy agencies including BAE Systems, CGI and F5.

Two of the UKโ€™s five Gold Standard Cyber Security Universities (Royal Holloway and University of Surrey) are also based in the county, helping to drive innovation in the sector.

Surrey County Council is further nurturing the sector and supporting growth through its involvement in the Surrey Cyber Security Cluster.

Feedback from the day

Mr S Coomber, Head of Computer Science at Ash Manor School, said:โ€œEvents like this enable students to explore what itโ€™s like to work in cyber security. By showcasing the breadth of opportunities available, we hope to empower students to make an informed decision about considering a career in the cyber sector.โ€

Jane Sheridan from SATRO Education Charity, said: โ€œTodayโ€™s event was not just about solving puzzles; it was about igniting passion and curiosity for cyber careers among young minds. We wanted to provide students with a glimpse into the exciting world of cyber security while emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.โ€ 

Hani Momeninia, Director of the SCSC, highlighted the significance of nurturing future talent in the cyber field. He said: โ€œAs the cyber landscape continues to evolve, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals capable of defending us against emerging threats. Initiatives like this play a crucial role in inspiring and nurturing the next generation of cyber leaders. Itโ€™s been great to work with the Surrey Cyber Security Cluster and SATRO Education Charity to design and host an engaging event for our budding cyber professionals.โ€

Inspiring careers in cyber

The event was one of a number of initiatives intended to inspire a range of audiences to consider a career in cyber by the Council’s Economy & Growth Team, in collaboration with the Surrey Cyber Security Cluster. Other events included a workshop for mums returning to work and a cyber careers fair at Brooklands Museum for secondary school students across the county.

Business Surrey, as the Councilโ€™s new business initiative, is committed to supporting sectors, such as cyber security, with support to grow. If you are looking for support and advice with workforce needs please contact our team of experts for free support.

The Surrey Careers Hub also works to connect employers with schools and colleges to support young people to take their next best step. Find out how you can get involved here.

team of students at the Digital Detectives challenge workshop - considering cyber careers

Skills Bootcamps launch in Surrey

Published 11 July 2024

Business news

Skills Bootcamps have launched in Surrey, giving businesses a low-cost way to upskill their teams and grow their organisations.

Surrey County Council is offering anyone aged 19 and over the opportunity to gain new skills and boost their earnings via Skills Bootcamps.

Courses are available in nine exciting and growing sectors which are crucial to the region’s future economy.

These government-funded courses are flexible and can be completed in up to 16 weeks โ€“ meaning individuals can learn new skills easily and quickly at a time that suits them.

Businesses in Surrey can also use them as a low-cost way to upskill their current workforce.

More than 500 courses are available across Surrey until March. Sectors include health and social care, gaming, cyber, construction and advanced engineering.

For most courses, no previous knowledge of the subject is required.

And all of the Skills Bootcamps courses have been developed closely with industry. This ensures they meet the future needs of local businesses and the wider economy.

View a full list of courses and start dates on the Surrey County Council website.

Why skills matter to Surrey

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Councilโ€™s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: โ€œOur continuous support of improving skills in Surrey is essential to our local economy. Whether learning a new skill or upskilling existing skills these courses will help Surrey residents.

โ€œWe are delighted to have been successful in securing ยฃ2.7 million from the Department for Education to support residents improve their career prospects through these Surrey Skills Bootcamps. 

โ€œEnsuring our residents have the right skills to secure good-quality jobs in growing sectors within Surrey is vital to us maintaining our position as one of the UKโ€™s largest regional economies. These free flexible courses are a great way to do that.

โ€œSupporting local people into great careers is good for our economy and good for our communities โ€“ ensuring we can offer a better quality of life for all, ensuring no one is left behind.โ€

How can Surrey businesses use Skills Bootcamps?

Any adult living in Surrey can sign up to a course. This is providing they have the right to work in the UK and they can commit to completing the course.

Skills Bootcamps can also be used by local businesses to upskill current employees at a discounted rate.

Large employers will need to contribute 30% of the cost. Small or medium employers (SMEs) will contribute 10%.

There is no cost to a business recruiting someone who has recently completed a Skills Bootcamp.

Are you a business wanting more information? Email skillsbootcamps@surreycc.gov.uk.

Or contact our team of experts direct via our Contact Us form.

King’s Award for Enterprise launched for Surrey businesses

Published 8 July 2024

Business news, Events and awards

Entries to the The King’s Award for Enterprise are now being welcomed from businesses across Surrey looking for royal approval for their work.

The Kingโ€™s Awards for Enterprise are the UKโ€™s most prestigious business awards. They enable winners to help consolidate market presence, strengthen their competitive position and to generate new business.ย 

His Majestyโ€™s Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, visited Surrey Research Park last week to encourage companies of all sizes to take advantage of the unique opportunity to showcase their excellence.ย 

Entries for the 2025 are now open. Apply online via the government website by 1pm on September 12, 2024.

The categories for nomination are:

  • Innovation
  • International trade
  • Sustainable development
  • Promoting opportunity through social mobilityย 

Winners attend a Royal reception. They will also have a trophy presented at their business by the Surrey Lord Lieutenancy.

Awards are valid for five years.

King’s Award winner case study: ipTEST

ipTEST, which operates from Surrey Research Park, specialises in cutting-edge semiconductor testing.

It won a Kingโ€™s Award for innovation in 2023 followed by a 2024 Kingโ€™s Award for international trade.

Speaking at the event, Conor McCarthy the Chief Executive of two-time Kingโ€™s Awards winner ipTEST, said: โ€œThe Kingโ€™s Award has significantly raised the companyโ€™s profile, leading to new business opportunities and increased credibility in our field. Most importantly though, it recognises the hard work and dedication put in by everyone at ipTEST. This has been a true team effort across our entire company.”

Caroline Fleming, Director of the Surrey Innovation District, based at Surrey Research Park, said: โ€œThe Kingโ€™s Award is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on Surreyโ€™s pioneering businesses and to ensure the countyโ€™s expert teams are recognised for their amazing contributions.ย We look forward to more of our Park community members joining ipTEST in the hall of fame of Kingโ€™s Award winners.”

Learn more about the King’s Award for Enterprise

There’s lots of help for businesses in Surrey interested in applying for the King’s Award for Enterprise.

A webinar will take place on Wednesday 17th July at 11am. Hear from Founder of Enterprise Nation Emma Jones CBE and Chairman of the British Business Bank, Stephenย Welton CBE.

Or you can contact the Kingโ€™s Award team direct on 020 7215 6880 or by emailย kingsawards@beis.gov.uk.

Find out more about the next round of awards on theย The Kingโ€™s Awards for Enterprise web page.

Group of about 30 people in professional outfits stand outside a building. Some have their hands in the air in celebration.

Electric vehicle grants of up to ยฃ10,000 available for businesses

Published 8 July 2024

Funding and grants

Businesses ready to make the switch from diesel vans to electric, and who use the A3 regularly, can apply for electric vehicle grants of up to ยฃ10,000 to help fund the purchase.

The A3 Electric Vehicle (EV) grants for electric vans offer ยฃ5,000 towards the cost of a small new electric van and ยฃ10,000 towards a medium or large electric van. 

The A3 EV grant is being introduced to help lower air pollution levels on the A3 road by Guildford.

To be eligible for support, applicants must:

  • own a roadworthy, business-insured diesel van;
  • drive at least 3 single journeys a week or 150 per year on the A3 by Guildford, between Woodbridge Hill A25/A322 junction and A31 to Farnham junction.  

If your business meets these criteria you can apply online on the Surrey County Council website before you purchase or lease your new electric vehicle through an accredited dealer.

You can apply for up to 10 grants per business per year.

This is not a scrappage scheme, so London-based small businesses and residents can apply for the London Clean Air Zone scrappage scheme in addition, and you can also benefit from the plugin grant when purchasing the vehicle regardless of where you are based. 

The A3 EV grant is part of Electric Towns and Cities initiative (ETCI) – Guildford, aimed at reducing nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions level on the stretch of road which runs through the town.

This is an ยฃ11 million scheme, which also includes a rapid EV charging network and active travel programme.

ETCI is financed by National Highways and delivered by Surrey County Council in partnership with Guildford Borough Council.  

How do I apply for Electric Vehicle Grants?

To check your eligibility, find an accredited dealer and apply online, visit the Surrey County Council website. 

If you’re a Surrey business looking for free help and support with Net Zero or green technology, get in touch with our experts via our business support form.

A white electric vehicle is parked outside a car showroom. On either side stand four people - two on each side.

Rural business grants of up to ยฃ50,000 now available

Published 3 July 2024

Funding and grants

Rural business grants of up to ยฃ50,000 are now available to small businesses (with up to 50 employees), charities and community groups in parts of Surrey.

Companies with up to 50 employees based in Waverley, Guildford and Tandridge are invited to apply. Grants can be used for up to 50% of eligible projects.ย ย 

The funding is provided by the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). It aims to support development, jobs, growth and community enterprise in rural areas.ย 

The rural business grants are between ยฃ2,500 and ยฃ50,000.

It can be used to help towards the costs of a range of items. This includes new tools and equipment, refurbishments, vehicles, digital infrastructure, green tourism, farm diversification and other rural projects.

Applicants will need to demonstrate how their project helps contribute to Net Zero or nature recovery objectives, whilst being good value for money.ย ย 

Information on the types of projects that are eligible is available on the Surrey County Council website. Apply for the funding online here.ย ย 

The Rural England Prosperity Fund is financed by the government.

It is administered and managed by Surrey County Council (SCC) on behalf of the District and Boroughs of Tandridge, Guildford and Waverley.ย ย 

How to apply for rural business grants

Applications for a grant from the Rural England Prosperity Fund can be done online via the Surrey County Council website.

The window for applications are now open. All funding is expected to be allocated by November 2024.

Before applying, businesses are encouraged to visit the government website toย check your geographical eligibility.

Applications will be reviewed and assessed regularly on a first come first served basis by an independent Local Action Group (LAG) panel.

All projects will be scored with funding handed out to successful projects.

What other Net Zero support is available?

Going green is good for business. It can help your business grow, seize new opportunities, create new jobs, encourage investment and adapt against the challenges of a changing planet. Reducing emissions can also save your business money.

We are working with businesses and organisations to nurture innovation to help the transition to a net zero economy. Find out more on our dedicated Green and Net Zero page.

Or, you can get free advice and support for your Surrey business via our business support form.

You can also search for information near you via our Support Directory.