If you run a small business in Shropshire and have been looking for practical, no-nonsense support to help you grow, this is for you.
The Shropshire Growth Hub’s Business Boost events are coming to three local towns this winter and spring, offering hands-on, one-to-one advice that is fully funded and locally focused.
Martin & Jones Marketing are pleased to be working in collaboration with the Shropshire Growth Hub as one of the advisors supporting the programme, with director, Ruth Martin attending as one of the many advisors at each event.
The Shropshire Growth Hub have brought together a team of experts from across the county to advise you on strengthening your operations, exploring new ideas, and connecting with the resources you need. We’ll provide guidance on a wide range of topics, including:
- Finance and Funding
- Start-up Support
- Skills & Training
- Networking & Events
- Growing Your Business
- Marketing and Social Media
- Presentation & Customer Service
Dates and locations
Market Drayton – 15 January (in collaboration with Make it Market Drayton)
Whitchurch – 10 February (in collaboration with Mike at Whitchurch Town Council)
Church Stretton – 12 March
All three events are informal drop-in sessions. No appointment is necessary, although you can register your interest via Eventbrite to help organisers plan attendance.
The Shropshire Growth Hub are also running training sessions over the next couple of months to help you upskill in various areas of business. You can view all of the events here.
What is Business Boost?
Business Boost is a programme delivered by the Shropshire Growth Hub to provide accessible, practical support for local businesses. The events are designed to be flexible, friendly and useful, whether you are just starting out, running an established business or looking to overcome a specific challenge.
Rather than formal presentations, Business Boost focuses on real conversations, in a more networking style format. You can speak directly to advisors, ask questions that matter to your business and leave with clear actions and signposting to further support.
What to expect on the day
Each Business Boost event follows the same drop-in format. When you attend, you can expect:
- One-to-one expert advice – You will be able to speak directly with a team of four specialist advisors, alongside Shropshire Growth Hub staff, for tailored guidance on your business challenges.
- Flexible attendance – You can stay for as little as 30 minutes or up to two hours, depending on your availability and how many advisors you would like to speak to.
- Fully funded local support – Learn about the range of programmes, resources and funded support available through the Shropshire Growth Hub, and how to access ongoing help after the event.
- Actionable insights – Get practical advice on topics such as finance, marketing and customer experience, as well as specialist areas including AI, storytelling and branding.
- Follow-up opportunities – The conversation does not end when you leave. You will be able to access further Growth Hub support and guidance after the event.
Who are the events for?
Business Boost is open to businesses at all stages. You may be a sole trader, a growing SME, or a business that has been established for many years but is facing new pressures or opportunities.
Common reasons people attend include wanting help with cashflow, improving marketing effectiveness, understanding how AI could be used in their business, refining their brand or customer experience, or simply wanting an objective conversation with someone outside their organisation.
Who will you meet?
The events are staffed by Shropshire Growth Hub advisors and a range of commissioned local specialists. Martin & Jones Marketing are one of the organisations supporting the programme, with Ruth Martin attending as one of the many advisors on the day.
Ruth will be available to talk about marketing strategy, branding, storytelling and practical ways to improve visibility and engagement. Alongside her, you will also find advisors with expertise in finance, operations and other business disciplines, ensuring you can access well-rounded advice and be signposted to the right support.
Why should business owners in Shropshire attend?
- The advice is free and fully funded
- Support is delivered locally and face to face
- You can get answers quickly without a long-term commitment
- You will be connected to wider Growth Hub support and resources
- For many businesses, a short conversation can unlock clarity, confidence and momentum.
How to get the most from your visit
To make the best use of your time, it helps to arrive with a clear idea of what you want to discuss. Consider bringing:
- A brief summary of your main challenge
- Basic figures if you want to talk about finance
- Examples of your marketing or website if relevant
- One or two goals you would like to achieve over the next few months
Join us at Business Boost
If you are based in or near Market Drayton, Whitchurch or Church Stretton, we strongly encourage you to drop in and take advantage of this free support.
You can register your interest via Eventbrite, or simply turn up on the day.
We look forward to meeting as many of you as possible at the events.