A packed programme of events is planned for aspiring and established Pembrokeshire entrepreneurs this autumn at the Bridge Innovation Centre in Pembroke Dock.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s Business Development Team is inviting businesses, freelancers and start-ups to join the free workshops and networking events focusing on building skills, making connections and taking action for growth.

The programme kicks off on September 8 with a new series of events, starting with ‘The Monday entrepreneur’.

The informal event will take place monthly and begins with an evening talk about Ecommerce with Pembroke Dock Businessman, Sean Lade.

This series will explore a variety of subjects guided by businessmen and women in the county who have experienced the high, lows, tips and tricks of developing successful enterprises in the county.

The September Business Drop-In event, on the last Friday of every month, will focus on micro businesses in the Care Industry, with opportunities to speak to industry support professionals and network with Pembrokeshire businesses. PLANED will be in attendance to offer specific support relating to this vital and growing sector.

The recent cyber attacks that temporarily felled the operations of retail giants in the county highlighted the need for businesses of all sizes to ensure the security of their operations.

Join the Regional Cyber Crime Unit for an engaging, interactive, and practical morning on September 10.

Step into the Cyber Escape Room Challenge to crack codes, solve puzzles, and thwart an attack. Hear updates on the latest frauds and learn simple, effective ways to protect your business and personal data. A further cyber security event will run on the October 13 to address this important issue.

Find out more about how to make more effective use of Digital Marketing and Social Media from the experts on October 15.

This event includes real case studies, in addition to an open Q&A session for businesses to share challenges, opportunities and knowledge.

There are also business development surgeries, creative industries and export events in the pipeline, with dates to be confirmed.

“These events are part of a rolling programme of events to support established local businesses and start-ups. We are keen to help people develop essential skills and aim to be responsive to business needs,” said Peter Lord, Principal Development Officer.

“To this end I would encourage businesses yet to complete the business survey to do so – it really does help inform the support programmes we develop.”

Tickets and further information can be found at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/bridge-innovation-centre-6882723153 or follow the Facebook page for regular updates about events, funding and networking opportunities: https://www.facebook.com/bridgeinnovation

The Pembrokeshire Business Survey can be completed by visiting: https://forms.office.com/e/iP36CNBvxN

This programme of events is funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).