Outset Cornwall anniversary

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A valuable programme supporting Cornish people from a variety of backgrounds to set up their own business is celebrating the culmination of its first year.

Outset Cornwall, an ERDF Convergence funded business start-up support programme delivered by economic development and enterprise specialists YTKO, will mark its first anniversary tomorrow with its special VIP (Very Inspiring People) Celebration Event.

The £2.2 million initiative was established in 2009 to support and inspire people from under-represented groups in the county, including women, over 50s, disabled, black minority ethnic or unemployed, to become the new generation of successful Cornish entrepreneurs.

Just one year in, Outset Cornwall is already supporting over 500 people, with over 50 new businesses started creating much-needed jobs within the county.

Programme director Kate McEwen said: “Since establishing Outset Cornwall, we have been overwhelmed by interest in our programmes. Our VIP Celebration showcases some fascinating and inspiring stories, demonstrating a real need for grassroots business support services such as ours.”

The VIP Celebration event takes place at the St Michael’s Hotel & Spa in Falmouth, where the successes of the Outset Cornwall project will be presented to key stakeholders and clients.

Carleen Kelemen, director of the Convergence Partnership Office for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, added: “Good business ideas come from people of all ages, backgrounds and competencies. Outset Cornwall reaches out to those on the periphery of the ‘expected’ sources of business generation.”

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