Free Online Business School for Start-Ups launches across Stratford District

Stratford entrepreneurs of the future are being offered free places on an online workshop to turn their hobbies and dreams into a successful business.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s Venture House has partnered with the hugely popular PopUp Business School to help would-be start-ups across the District to get their ideas off the ground this February.

Designed to inspire people and help them find the confidence to make their business ideas a reality, the PopUp Business School is aimed at everyone, from those with no cash and no business experience to fledgling start-ups that need guidance to keep on track.

The online five-day workshop will run from Monday 15th February to Friday 19th February, and will be held from 10am to 3pm each day.

PopUp’s events are led by successful entrepreneurs and professionals and can be very sought after, with events regularly attracting over 100 aspiring business owners.

Attendees can expect a completely different approach to starting a business, Simon Paine, PopUp Business School co-founder and CEO, explained.

He said: “There’s nothing better than meeting someone with no business experience and guiding them through their first sale – it can transform lives.

“You don’t need money, experience or a university degree to start a business. You just need an idea, some passion and a bit of help.

“Many of those attending will leave with a business and a first sale. Those who don’t will still take away business skills, practical advice and confidence. We like to say: ‘this is the best business course money can’t buy’.”

The online training schedule includes a mix of practical sessions, one-to-one coaching, workshop sessions and local peer support that local residents can attend from their homes.

At a similar event, over a quarter of attendees started a new business and gained their first sale within five days.

While the team has a great track record of inspiring new businesses, they also introduce and talk about a range of work-focused skills aimed at helping people improve their job prospects, even if setting up their own business is a step too far.

Cllr Matt Jennings, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Tourism at Stratford-on-Avon District Council, said: “With many people having a serious think about their futures due to the pandemic, there will be plenty in Stratford District who will be unsure about what to do next.

“PopUp Business School is a perfect way for people who are thinking about getting into self-employment to learn the basics and create their own business.

“It’s free to attend, so I’d encourage anyone interested, no matter their age or experience, to sign up.”

For more information about the workshop or to book a free place, visit: www.popupbusinessschool.co.uk/stratford