Latest updates and stories from Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce and its Members

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” This famous quote, often attributed to Abraham Lincoln, is the essence of the entrepreneur in a nutshell. See a need, fulfil it profitably, drive your vision.

But where do entrepreneurs go to make connections, build relationships, get advice and a helping hand, and find new prospects?

Many of us question whether we have what it takes to succeed in business, but what qualities do we actually need to possess to be a successful business person? Is an outgoing personality a must have? Do we have to be a natural self-starter? Or do we just have to be beguiling enough to influence and persuade clients? 

EFM has recently launched a new service "Finance Director on Demand" designed as a free helpline for SMEs providing practical guidance and support with business financial matters.

Cranfield School of Management’s MBA has been named as one of the top 20 programmes in the world for entrepreneurship by the Financial Times.

UKTI have announced a new scheme where young entrepreneurs can apply for help setting up their business in the UK. Successful applicants will receive a 12-month start-up support package including investment, mentoring and logistical help. The scheme is available to final year university students or those who graduated in 2011 or later.

Bedfordshire Chamber's youngest member, Henry Patterson aged 9,  is celebrating after it was announced last night that the his company Not Before Tea is a finalist for the ‘Most Captivating Entrepreneur of the Year' category and also 'Young Entrepreneur of the Year' in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

BIS Minister Michael Fallon has announced that the government are looking for two Entrepreneurs in Residence. They want to bring small businesses and entrepreneurs in to the heart of government in order to ensure that policy decisions have the small firm perspective taken into account from the very outset.