Budding enterpeneurs to get helping hand

Budding entrepreneurs will soon be able use their local libraries as ‘business hubs’

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Local residents interested in starting their own business will be able to get help and support from libraries across Rochdale.

Currently in the planning stage, enterprising residents will be able to access a wide range of information that will offer the help a prospective businessperson could need to turn their ideas into reality.

The project will also help Rochdale's libraries to become business hubs, with residents offered the chance to use their libraries to meet up and exchange ideas, either by using available meeting spaces or virtually, through the creation of online enterprise communities.

In addition, a programme of  five events will be held at which it is planned to bring top business brains to act as role models for the next generation.

Councillor Peter Williams, Rochdale Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Customer Services, said: “Our libraries are the perfect place for anyone who would like to start their own business and would like practical help on the nuts and bolts of getting their business off the ground. Not only will they will be able to meet like-minded people they will be able to access high quality information and expert advice.”

The project is being funded through a joint bid by Greater Manchester’s ten authorities for £45,000 from Arts Council England and the Department for Communities and Local Government.

The upcoming Rochdale Festival of Literature and Ideas features a talk by  award winning designer, inventor and businessman Mark Champkins.

Mark Champkins - ‘What I have learnt about how to think up new product ideas and turn them into reality’ is at Rochdale Library on Friday 25 October at 7.15pm. Tickets can be booked online at www.rochdaleliteraturefestival.co.uk