The Federation of Small Businesses (FDS) is set to launch a new programme of events and activities in April, to deliver support for the self-employed, small businesses and microbusinesses, in York.

The £40,000 funding for the initiative was allocated by York Council to promote the business benefits of membership organisations in York. In addition, it aims to aid businesses in their recovery from the pandemic. Many businesses and individuals were affected by the pandemic in so many ways, financially and spiritually, this initiative built by the FSB and York Council is hoping to lift the spirits and productivity of these small businesses and individuals once again. 

This programme will include a number of live events and masterclasses, expert advice, and fully-funded support, for those looking to get back on their feet or simply expand their knowledge and expertise in their field. 

The first event to be delivered by the FSB will include a two-part intensive masterclass with Ryan Mulhearn, video production expert from First Frame Productions, to help businesses produce professional-quality video using just their smartphone, going live on the 7th of April. 

Further masterclasses will take place throughout the year all focusing on upscaling your businesses, including retail display training, customer service training and strategy for digital marketing. There will be a number of services also running alongside such as 1-2-1 consultancy support for businesses, funded photography and videography to capture how businesses use FSB and council support.

Carolyn Frank, Development Manager for the FSB in York & North Yorkshire, said: “City of York Council are aligned with the FSB mission to support all small businesses to achieve their ambitions, and we have developed the year-long varied programme based on feedback from businesses about their needs. Although the worst of the pandemic seems to be over now, businesses are still struggling to return to pre-pandemic trade levels, and support like this can build in resilience now and for the future.”

If you’re a small business in York looking to grow, and this sounds like something for you, you can get involved by signing up for the York council’s business email updates here.