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SUNDERLAND BUSINESS SUPPORT FUND - PHASE 2 LAUNCHES

As a Registered Provider with NBSL we wanted to update you about this Grant programme which relaunches or growing businesses in Sunderland.  We expect there to be high levels of demand so we would encourage any interested clients to make an application as soon as possible. New Grant Fund Launched - Sunderland Business Support Fund NBSL, in partnership with the Sunderland City Council, are delighted to announce the launch of the next phase of the Sunderland Business Support Fund (S...

Raising a Cup to New Beginnings: Durham Coffee Roasters Becomes KAFFEEHAUS!

Today marks an exciting new chapter for one of our cherished Do Business Network members!  We're thrilled to officially welcome KAFFEEHAUS, formerly known as Durham Coffee Roasters, as they unveil their brand new identity today, June 2nd!For years, we've known and loved the dedication and passion of Durham Coffee Roasters, led by the fantastic father-daughter duo, Bernhard and Carina.  Now, as KAFFEEHAUS, they are reconnecting with their Austrian-German heritage, with their new name li...

A NEW EXHIBITION COMES TO USHAW!

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF LADYBIRD BOOKSSaturday, 28th June – Sunday, 31st August 2025This summer, see The Wonderful World of the Ladybird Book Artists in our family-focused exhibition which celebrates the art of the Ladybird book artists from the 1940s to the 1970s.The nostalgic exhibition includes original art, audio visual elements and the centrepiece Wall of Books featuring hundreds of original volumes from the period.Find out more here....

DEPARTMENT FOR BUSINESS AND TRADE (DBT) NORTH OF ENGLAND NEWSLETTER

We are pleased to share some great highlights, this month.In June we are bringing even more business support services to your doorstep with our upcoming Meet the Customs Specialists, Doing Business in Australia, Unlocking Global Market Opportunities: Meet the Tech Experts and Made in the UK, Sold to the World: Spotlight on Technology events.Read on to find out more about our latest international trade news and get your business growing....

Step Up Your Wellbeing: Discover Take a Hike UK!

In today's busy world, finding ways to boost both our physical and emotional health is more important than ever.  That's where Take a Hike UK steps in, offering far more than just a walk in the park.  They provide expertly curated hiking experiences, impactful fundraising events, and dynamic team-building days, all designed with your holistic well-being at their core.More Than Just Miles: A Focus on WellbeingWhat truly sets Take a Hike UK apart is their unwavering commitment to the phy...

Welcome Back, Tony Liddell of Vindomora Heritage Solutions!

The Do Business Network is thrilled to welcome back a familiar face, Tony Liddell of Vindomora Heritage Solutions! After a year away, Tony is returning to the DBN, and we couldn't be happier to have him and his unique expertise back in our network.For those new to the DBN, or as a refresher for our long-standing members, Tony Liddell is the driving force behind Vindomora Heritage Solutions, an archaeological practice based right here in Consett, County Durham. Tony has been a professional in the...

Do Business Network Podcast: Featuring Tori Bradison from Northern Cancer Voices

We're excited to shine a spotlight on an organisation making a significant difference in our community: Northern Cancer Voices.In this special episode, Melanie Cant from Do Business Network chats with Tori Bradison from Northern Cancer Voices. Discover how this vital group ensures the experiences and feedback of cancer patients and their families directly influence local cancer services. Discover how their diverse team contributes to improvements, how their local support informs broader advocacy...

Welcome New DBN Member: Peter Knowles from Centurion Computers!

Centurion Computers is a comprehensive IT solutions provider based in Hexham, serving both home users and businesses across the North East, North West, and Wales. Founded by Managing Director Peter Knowles in 2002, they offer a wide array of services including hardware supply and installation, rapid device repairs (often under 24 hours), bespoke software development, networking solutions (including 4G/5G and Starlink for remote areas), VoIP services, Office 365 & email setup, cyber security,...

GET READY: UK HOUSE IS COMING TO SXSW LONDON

Introducing: UK House @ SXSW London DATES: Monday, 2th - Wednesday, 4th June 2025VENUE: 7 Devonshire Square, London, EC2M 4YHWelcome to UK House, where creativity and innovation meet opportunityCheck out our programme & reserve your spot today.We're thrilled to announce the highly anticipated debut of UK House @ SXSW London, in the heart of the City.We're bringing together some of the world's most innovative minds to spark ideas, forge partnerships and shape the future of the creat...

Discover the Power of Mentorship with Carol Smith from Simply Support Mentoring

In the world of business, unlocking your potential often begins with the right guidance. We're thrilled to feature Carol Smith from Simply Support Mentoring on the latest DBN podcast episode. Carol's philosophy resonates deeply with our belief that "Support empowers dreams to take flight."Join us as we dive into the heart of her business, exploring her distinct approach to mentoring and the transformative journeys her clients experience. Carol also shares what she finds most rewarding about her ...

An Opportunity for Your Next Project: Meet County Durham Building and Joinery Ltd.

Here at Do Business Network (DBN), we're always keen to spotlight the incredible talent and professionalism within our community. Today, we're pleased to feature County Durham Building and Joinery, a valued DBN member who consistently delivers exceptional results across the North East.For those planning home improvements or new builds, an opportunity has arisen that might just align with your timeline: County Durham Building and Joinery has a project slot newly available!Comprehensive Services, ...

Don't Miss Out! DBN's Next Networking Meeting is Just Around the Corner!

Mark your calendars! The Do Business Network (DBN) is thrilled to announce our next networking meeting, and you won't want to miss it. Get ready to connect, learn, and grow with our famously friendly community.Event Details:Date: Tuesday, June 17th Time: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM Location: Beamish Park Golf ClubWhat's On The Agenda?We've packed this meeting with valuable opportunities designed to help your business thrive:Meet Our Members: This is your chance to meet a diverse group of local business p...

DBN Connections in Action: Mirror Finish Detailing and Ushaw College Team Up for Classic Car Show!

It's always fantastic to see the power of DBN networking in action, and this story is a brilliant example! We're thrilled to highlight how two of our valued DBN members, Mirror Finish Detailing and Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens, are collaborating on the upcoming Ushaw Classic Car Show.The spark for this exciting partnership was ignited right within our DBN community. Back in March, at one of our regular DBN meetings, Ian from Mirror Finish Detailing had the chance to connect with Han...

Powering Progress: DBN Members 121 Business Links and Ushaw College Collaborate for Net Zero!

We're delighted to share a brilliant example of collaboration between two more of our valued members: 121 Business Links and Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens.This powerful partnership began, fittingly, at a Do Business Networking event in 2024, where Chris Bonas from 121 Business Links first connected with Lucy Jenkins, Co-CEO at Ushaw College. Lucy shared concerns about rising utility bills, and Chris stepped in to help.After a thorough review, 121 Business Links was able to secure a m...

DBN Members Making Waves: Consett Rotary Supports Accessible Sailing!

It's always fantastic to see our Do Business Network (DBN) members collaborating and creating positive change in our local community. This week, we're thrilled to share a wonderful story of partnership between two of our valued members: Consett Rotary and Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club.Consett Rotary was delighted to present a generous £1,000 donation to Rob Richardson from Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club for their crucial Accessibility Boat Fund. This incredible support is a testament to the po...

Staying Ahead: Navigating Budget Changes with KL Accountants

At our recent fantastic networking meeting (joint with the North Tenants Business Network!), we were fortunate to have a brilliant session dedicated to keeping our businesses on track financially.A huge thank you to Tom and Ryan from KL Accountants for their insightful presentation on the recent budget changes. They did a superb job of distilling complex financial updates into clear, actionable information for all our members.Understanding these changes is crucial for every business, big or smal...

Cracking Connections and Funding Insights: A Great Morning with Northern Tenants Business Network!

What a fantastic morning we had at our recent networking meeting!  It was brilliant to see so many smiling faces and feel the buzz in the room, especially as we teamed up with the North Tenants Business Network. These joint events are always a highlight, bringing even more diverse connections and opportunities.We were lucky to have three excellent guest speakers who provided some truly valuable insights:First up, a big thank you to Stuart Armstrong from Business Durham. Stuart gave us an in...

SPRING BUDGET 2025: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Join Jon Dudgeon (CEO) and Adrian O’Connell (Head of Tax) from Blu Sky in our latest UMi Makes it Easy Webinar, where we break down what the Autumn 2024 and Spring 2025 Budgets mean for your business and more importantly what to do about it now. Here’s what you’ll learn:The key tax changes affecting employers, including NIC increasesWhat’s changing in R&D tax credits – and how to stay compliant under new, stricter rulesHow...

READY TO GROW? DISCOVER HOW EXPORTING COULD TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS

Many B2B small and medium-sized businesses are missing out on the benefits of international trade because of outdated assumptions.  But the truth is, exporting in today’s world might be easier and more affordable than you think. Watch our latest webinar with Ian Dunning, CEO of TradeTech Solutions Ltd, to discover how you can begin trading internationally with little to no upfront cost. Whether you decide to take the leap into exporting or not, this session will e...

AVOID THE #1 MISTAKE START-UPS MAKE WHEN SEEKING FUNDING!

Too many founders walk into the funding conversation unprepared and it shows.Imagine applying for a job without a CV.  No plan, no pitch, no understanding of what the role involves.  That’s how it can feel to funders when early-stage businesses ask for support without a clear ask or strategy. The good news?  You don’t need all the answers - just the right questions, a clear plan, and a little expert support.  That’s where we come in.Dave Jones, Business Funding Adv...

Shine a Spotlight on Our Newest Member: Ian Ramshaw from Mirror Finish Detailing!

The 'Do Business' Network is pleased to welcome our latest member: Mirror Finish Detailing, led by the skilled Ian Ramshaw!  Based in the North East, Mirror Finish Detailing offers professional car detailing services focused on enhancing and protecting your vehicle's appearance.Ian brings a strong commitment to quality to every job, paying close attention to detail and using effective products and techniques.  Whether your car needs a thorough clean or more intensive work, Mirror Finis...

COMING YOUR WAY THIS MAY AT USHAW!

Date and time: Saturday, 24th May 2025 - 10:00-16:00Ushaw Classic Car & Bike Show returns for a spectacular day celebrating motoring history.  Set against the stunning backdrop of Ushaw’s historic grounds, this event brings together an incredible collection of vintage, classic, and custom cars and motorcycles from across the decades.Click here for further information....

Welcoming Simply Support Mentoring (Carol Smith) to the Do Business Network!

We're absolutely delighted to welcome our newest member, Simply Support Mentoring, led by the wonderful Carol Smith! Based right here in the North East, Simply Support Mentoring offers invaluable guidance and support to individuals seeking personal and professional growth.Carol brings a wealth of experience to her mentoring practice, equipping her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities individuals face when striving to make a positive impact, both personally and within the...

Summer Networking with a View (and a Boat Trip!) - DBN BBQ at DRSC

Get ready for a unique networking experience! Do Business Network (DBN) invites its members to our Summer BBQ at the stunning Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club (DRSC) on Wednesday, July 16th, 2025.Imagine networking with fellow professionals while enjoying a delicious BBQ and the breath-taking views of Derwent Reservoir. And that's not all – there will be an opportunity to partake in a boat trip on the water!DBN members enjoy complimentary access to this fantastic event. Non-members are welcome t...

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND TRADE NORTH OF ENGLAND NEWSLETTER - MAY 2025

Discover the latest events, international trade news and updates from around the network this month. Helping your business to grow internationally and increasing your sales potential is our top priority....