Business news in Harrogate and Knaresborough
Welcome to the Harrogate and Knaresborough page of the Business North Yorkshire newsletter. Here you will find details of local networking groups, events in the area, and business news from around the constituency.
To feature your business news or events, contact us by email.
Your local Senior Business Advisor
As the newly appointed Senior Business Advisor for Harrogate and Knaresborough, Michael’s primary role is to promote and support business growth and the economic potential of North Yorkshire, and he works with colleagues, partners and key stakeholders to help deliver our Economic Growth Strategy. Michael takes the lead responsibility for delivering a bespoke one to one business engagement and support service to the businesses of the Harrogate and Knaresborough constituency.
Michael has a wealth of experience within the public sector and can help businesses navigate their way around various departments. Relatively new to our team, he is keen to meet businesses and offer them support to achieve their goals.
To book an appointment, contact us by email.
Networking events in your area
Connect Over a Cuppa, Co-Lab, Harrogate
- 20 February, 9.30am to 11.30am
- 20 March, 9.30am to 11.30am
- 17 April, 9.30am to 11.30am
The Little Big Creative Agency: case study
Thanks to the generous support of the North Yorkshire Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Small Business Grants, Little Big Creative Agency has been able to take a significant step forward in the services we provide to our clients. The funding allowed us to expand our creative capabilities to include 3D work and enhanced video production. This investment has already started to pay dividends, allowing us to deliver cutting-edge designs and productions that meet the growing demands of our industry.
We have already put our new equipment to good use by designing an innovative stage and stand for an upcoming conference at the ACC in Liverpool. This project has demonstrated our ability to create impactful and immersive designs that showcase our clients’ brands in exciting new ways. With our advanced capabilities we can now approach projects with greater speed, precision, and creativity, ensuring that our clients benefit from work that stands out in an increasingly competitive market.
In addition, we are in the process of updating our marketing communications to highlight the new services we can offer potential clients. The enhanced capabilities of the new system mean we can now reach new markets that were previously out of our scope. Not only can we offer more to our existing clients, but we can also confidently approach new industries and businesses, knowing we have the tools to meet their creative needs.
This grant has been transformative for Little Big Creative Agency, allowing us to grow, innovate, and expand. We are incredibly grateful for the support from North Yorkshire Council and look forward to continuing to deliver outstanding results for our clients.
Business Support Drop-Ins
Free in-person sessions: 12 February, 13 March and 9 April – 10am to 1pm
Are you thinking of starting your own business, or looking for help to grow your business? Call in to our drop-in mornings hosted at Harrogate Co-Lab and meet the business support specialists from North Yorkshire Council and York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub.
Our friendly and knowledgeable local team understand the challenges and questions that arise when starting or growing a business and our goal is to assist you by discussing your business plans and connecting you with relevant resources.
John Hartley from Forsta Projects in Harrogate said: “The drop-in sessions, and the Co-Lab workspace help to bring the local business community together and it provides immediate access to a range of sources of support. Our goal was to make new connections and we’ve achieved that – we’ve met some great people.”
What to expect
- One-to-One Consultations: Speak directly with business support specialists who can offer personalised guidance and solutions tailored to your specific needs.
- Expert Advice: Gain insights and practical advice from experienced professionals who specialise in business starts ups, growth and development.
- Resource Connections: Discover a wealth of resources, including funding opportunities, training programmes, networking events and other support services available in your area.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and business professionals, expanding your network and building potential collaborations.
The Harrogate Co-Lab workspace is conveniently located at the Harrogate Convention Centre, Entrance 3, Kings Road (opposite Cold Bath Brewing Co.).
Interested? Just drop in at Harrogate Co-Lab between 10am and 1pm on 12 February, 13 March or 9 April, or contact us for further information.
Harrogate College Apprenticeship and Job Fair
Harrogate College will be hosting an Apprenticeship and Job Fair on Tuesday 11 February, 5.30pm to 7pm.
The event will happen at the same time as the general Harrogate College Open Event, with the Apprenticeship and Job Fair open to any visitors who are interested in finding an apprenticeship or looking for employment.
If you do not currently employ apprentices but are looking to do so, this event is also a great opportunity for you to speak to their apprenticeship team about how you can take on an apprentice.
If you are interested in having a stand to promote employment opportunities at your organisation, please fill in the Harrogate College Apprenticeship and Job Fair Exhibitor Google Form.
For further information, please email Harrogate College.