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Welcome to our Business Update Issue 101. In this edition, we look back at some of the community wealth building activities that have supported SME growth, and highlight upcoming events such as the East London Summit and Black Pound Day. |
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Supporting businesses through knowledge and connection
Breaking Down Barriers to Finance was a well-attended event, bringing together businesses from high street retailers to social enterprises. The session explored the financial challenges faced by underrepresented groups, offering a safe and engaging environment for entrepreneurs to share personal experiences, gain insights from peers and experts, and most importantly, expand their networks while exploring potential avenues for financial support.
We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to our partners, British Business Bank, Bank of India UK, and Abode Mortgage Bureau, for generously sharing their time, knowledge, and expertise.
A special thank you to Date Sultan, a local SME, for sharing his inspiring business journey.
We’re also grateful to all our attendees for taking part and to the University of East London for kindly sponsoring the venue. |
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Digital Growth for Newham SMEs: Social Media & Beyond
We welcomed a room full of Newham businesses for a free, hands-on session focused on building digital skills and confidence.This workshop was delivered by The Hill Group, bringing together local SMEs for a session packed with insights, practical tips and expert guidance on digital growth. The session was designed to empower Newham-based SMEs to grow their businesses by leveraging social media and professional networking platforms more effectively.
As a bonus our SMEs also benefited from: - Free 1-year access to the Staff Skills Academy+ platform giving our SMEs access to over 250 courses
- A CPD-certified certificate
One local SME shared the following feedback: “It was truly an enriching event, highlighting essential points for anyone working in the world of social media. It’s always important to review strategies and update our business knowledge, and this particular training was especially inspiring. Even for those with experience, there is always something new to learn and apply. Congratulations to the whole team for delivering such a valuable experience!” |
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BID Writing for local supplier
A practical and insightful Bid Writing Workshop was recently delivered to Newham-based suppliers by The Hill Group’s Head of Bid Management.
The session aimed to equip Newham-based suppliers with the skills to write stronger, more persuasive bids, thereby increasing their chances of winning contracts in a competitive market. The workshop covered key topics such as understanding bid evaluation criteria, structuring responses effectively, and using the “So what?” technique to highlight value and impact. Participants also explored practical approaches to bid layout, presentation, and answering experience-based questions.
A huge thank you to the team at The Hill Group, especially to Robbie Tucker and Lauren Kennett for their continued partnership and commitment to supporting our SMEs. |
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Date change notification!
East London Business Summit - Meet the Buyer has been postponed to 20th November. We will share further details in due course.
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East Ham Business Network Thursday 23 October - 5-7pm Primark, High Street North, E6 1HZ
Join us at our next meeting for an opportunity to meet the delivery partners for the GLA contract and receive information on how this funding will support the High Street and businesses. Share your ideas, collaborate and help shape the future of East Ham’s business community. |
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Digital support for businesses
Whether you're just starting your digital journey or looking to scale up, we offer practical support to help your business become more efficient, visible, and resilient. From expert advice to training and digital tools, we’re here to help you harness the power of technology.
What's on offer: - Digital strategy and planning
- Website and e-commerce support
- Social media and digital marketing
- Tools and software for SMEs
- Digital skills and AI support
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Exciting opportunity to lease a cultural and community space in Plashet: The former Plashet Passmore Edwards Public Library
The London Borough of Newham is offering a unique opportunity to lease the Former Plashet Passmore Edwards Public Library - a Grade II Listed Building located in the heart of the borough. Spanning 4,700 sq. ft. of office, studio, and theatre space, this historic building has long served as a civic building.
London Borough of Newham is seeking expressions of interest from culture and community led operators to collaborate with the council in revitalising the space into a thriving hub for the local community and the wider borough. Whether you're an entrepreneur, cultural organisation, or community group, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the ambitions of Newham’s Cultural Strategy (PDF) and recently published Growth Plan (PDF).
Deadline to submit your proposal: 5pm 17 October 2025 |
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Transform your manufacturing business with the Made Smarter Adoption Programme - Match-funded grants up to £20,000
The Made Smarter Adoption Programme helps businesses within the manufacturing sector embrace digital adaptation to boost growth, productivity and sustainability.
Match-funded grants up to £20,000 are available to support your digital transformation journey, helping you invest in tools and expertise that make a real impact.
The programme is now accepting applications for: - Leadership & Management Course - begins November 2025
- Organisational Workforce Development Course - begins November 2025
- Fully Paid 12-Week Internships - now open
- Grant Funding - opens 1st October 2025.
If you’re a manufacturing business in Newham, don't miss this opportunity. Register your interest below and take the first step towards digital transformation. |
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Partner with the Council to Make This Christmas Extra Special!
Our Resident Engagement team is reaching out to local businesses and partners to help create a magical Christmas lunch for those who need it most. This two day festive event aims to bring residents over 75 years old, living alone and in receipt of housing benefits or council tax reduction together, spreading joy, and making lasting memories - and we’d love for you to be part of it!
We’re currently looking for support in the following areas: - Funding to help cover the cost of food, decorations, and logistics
- Volunteers to lend a hand on the day and help spread festive cheer. This could include meeting & greeting residents, helping to set up the hall, and serving food.
- Goody Bag Items such as treats, small gifts, or vouchers
- Entertainment - music, performers, or anything fun to light up the room!
Your contribution, big or small, will make a huge difference. In return, we’ll proudly acknowledge your support in our event materials and social media, and you’ll be part of a heartwarming community celebration.
If you’re interested in supporting this initiative or would like more details, please get in touch: |
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Newham Council has launched a public consultation on its new Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) 2025-2030, outlining how it will reduce air pollution and improve health outcomes for residents.
Drop In, Ask Questions, and Share Your Views on Air Quality
The Council are encouraging residents, workers, students and employees to share their views on the draft Air Quality Action Plan. Drop-in consultation sessions are taking place at local libraries, providing an opportunity to learn about proposed measures, ask questions, and offer feedback to help shape the final plan.
Sessions include: Monday 27 October Green Street Library - 10:00–12:00 Stratford Library -10:00–12:00
Tuesday 28 October Manor Park Library - 10:00–12:00 Custom House Library - 10:00–12:00 Forest Gate Library - 14:00–16:00
Thursday 30 October Plaistow Library - 10:00–12:00 Canning Town Library - 10:00–12:00 East Ham Library - 14:00–16:00 North Woolwich Library - 14:00–16:00
No booking is needed, just come along and have your say.
For more information: |
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Affordable studios / offices are now available at The Factory
A limited number of affordable studios / offices are now available to rent at The Factory, with sizes ranging from 140 sqft to 2,600 sqft. The Factory is a creative work and event space redevelopment from Projekt. Set across 5.2 acres, the 100,000 sqft site has been re-purposed to provide work space for 40 businesses, and includes event spaces, meeting rooms, a cafe and parking facilities. If you would like to join this growing creative community and for more information: |
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| Newham Business Awards 2025
Now in its 9th year, the Newham Business Awards returns to spotlight the incredible achievements of local businesses across the borough.
Whether you're a high street retailer, a social enterprise, or a young entrepreneur or startup, this is your chance to be recognised with 12 award categories to choose from, there’s something for every type of business.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to the prestigious gala evening on Friday 5 December, where winners from each category will compete for the coveted John James Business of the Year Award, which comes with a £1,000 cash prize.
Eligibility includes individuals or organisations based in Newham or those with a strong foothold in Newham, without requiring Chamber of Commerce membership.
Apply by 5pm on Friday 7 November!
For more information: |
| | | | DevelopMentor Programme
Build your skills as a line manager with Workwhile’s DevelopMentor programme – proven to make a difference to you and those you manage!
With the next cohort starting in November the program comprises six hours of facilitated online training, delivered over four sessions, with follow-up materials and a one-on-one coaching call.
It aims to enhance skills in motivation, engagement, inclusive management, and effective communication, contributing to improved staff performance and retention.
Effective line management is crucial, particularly for young and marginalised employees, as poor management contributes to high turnover rates. Training leads to an average 32% increase in employee engagement and productivity.
Interested in finding out more? Contact us. |
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| | Realising the Remarkable returns!
Behind every small business is a big dream – and the right support can make all the difference. Enterprise Nation and VistaPrint are teaming up once again to champion the UK's small business community.
This year, six inspiring independent retail businesses will each receive a £5,000 grant, plus expert design support and marketing tools to help them grow with confidence.
For more information: |
| | | | Lyle’s Local Fund
We're excited to announce that the Lyle’s Local Fund is back this year with an even larger grant pot of £50,000.
The Lyle’s Local Fund, has been set up by Tate & Lyle Sugars, and administered in partnership with the London Borough of Newham, to support projects that help to create local communities in Newham that are safe, prosperous and healthy.
Grants of up to £5,000 will be available, and the fund is open to not-for-profit organisations, such as schools, charities and community groups, who are based in Newham and whose work benefits the residents of Newham. |
| | | Help to Grow Management Programme
The Help to Grow Management programme aims to help business leaders boost their leadership skills and improve business performance.
The programme is 90% Government-funded. To find out more, contact us. |
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Free Commercial Property Advice
The London Business Partnership is offering FREE expert-led Property Advice Service to help you make confident and informed decisions.
Whether you're signing, renewing, or thinking about buying or renting a commercial property, this FREE service will help you make smarter decisions with clear, practical advice, like: - How to negotiate lease terms that protect your interests
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Updates on business rates and available relief
- Access one-to-one expert advice and master classes
For more information: |
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Great British Business Show 2025 12-13 November ExCeL London
The world’s largest award-winning business event, The Business Show 2025, is returning to Excel London. Join over 25,000 SMEs and startups at this premier London business expo, designed to provide the support and resources you need to start, grow, or scale your business.
Alongside The Business Show UK, several events will be running together throughout the two days, including: - Retrain Expo for reskilling and workforce development
- Going Global for international trade and expansion
- CPD Expo for professional development
- White Label World Expo for eCommerce growth and entrepreneurship.
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| UK Black Business Week and Show 14-18 October Excel London
UK Black Business Week is a week-long series of events (13–18 October) celebrating, supporting and connecting Black entrepreneurs and professionals.
The event will host thematic talks and sessions throughout the week such as Black Women Business Talks, Black Tech Experience, Black Property Talks, Black Finance Talks, Black in Legal, Black Media, Culture & Sports, and more. Click below to find out more. |
| | Through our partnership we have secured exclusive 100% discount for Newham businesses.
Email us to access the code. |
| | | | London's Good Work Standard - A Scale-up East Business Growth Breakfast Thursday 6 Nov - 08:30-10:30am London City Hall, E16 1ZE
The event will be hosted by Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growt. Join like-minded East London employers for a morning of networking and learning about this free accreditation for employers of all sizes and in all sectors.
Discover how implementing good work practices can drive growth and success for your business. |
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| | Unlocking the power of video to scale your business Thursday 16 October – 12-12:30PM Online
Join a Lunch and Learn session to learn how to create standout video content without the need for editing experience. Video is vital for brand strategy, offering up to 20 times more engagement than other formats. Enterprise Nation's expert speaker, Tim Chaffee, will guide you in overcoming the common barriers of cost and skill, covering how to enhance brand visibility through video storytelling, produce high-quality content with browser-based tools, and collaborate with your team for efficient production.
About the speaker: Tim is a video editor, director and product specialist with more than 15 years of experience in creative media and video production. He's led immersive storytelling teams at The New York Times and Yahoo News, and now works with elevate.io to help brands, small businesses and creators unlock professional video workflows, without needing traditional editing expertise.
For more information: |
| | | | Black Pound Market Saturday 18 October – 12-5pm The Marketplace, E6
From powerful stories to community markets and performances, explore Newham’s Black History Month programme. To find out more: |
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Copyright © 2023 London Borough of Newham, All rights reserved. |
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Our mailing address is: London Borough of Newham, Newham Dockside, 1000 Dockside Road, London, E16 2QU. |
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